STV GROUP launches production of forged projectile bodies for artillery ammunition, not only in 155 mm caliber
05/09/2025 - The Czech Republic gains another key capability in the field of arms self-sufficiency
STV GROUP, the only manufacturer of large-calibre ammunition in the Czech Republic, is investing in development and systematically strengthening its capacities. As part of an extensive investment program worth CZK 5 billion, which STV GROUP presented to the public in recent months, it announces the launch of one of its projects, namely the strategic production of forged projectile bodies for 155 mm, 152 mm, and 122 mm artillery shells.
STV GROUP considers reducing dependence on foreign suppliers to be highly strategic. It therefore invests in the localisation of production, the development of modern technologies, automation, and the robotisation of processes on a long-term basis. In doing so, it cooperates with leading Czech companies and thus supports the growth of the domestic industry.
New high-precision technology
Serial production of forged projectile bodies is scheduled to commence at the end of 2025 in newly constructed premises. Thanks to the unique technology of the forge and modern automated lines, STV GROUP can produce high-precision shells with minimal weight and centre of gravity dispersion. The standard weight deviation within a single production series of shells is in the order of several kilograms, which is why conventional ammunition must be marked with weight marks, according to which artillerymen must correct the elevation. The newly manufactured shells from STV GROUP have a tolerance deviation in the order of only tens of grams. This eliminates the need for weight marks and makes the ammunition significantly more accurate and comfortable for the operator. Production is currently ready for 155mm, 152mm, and 122mm calibres. 155 mm projectile bodies will follow these in a technologically more complex design for an extended range of up to 40 km.
In 2026, the new production will reach a capacity of more than 100,000 shells per year, with materials and semi-finished products coming exclusively from Czech strategic partners. Thanks to the modular solution, it is possible to significantly increase production within a few months if the security situation requires it.
Fully automated filling lines
The forged missile bodies are then filled on automated technological lines with robotic workstations, which STV GROUP develops and manufactures itself. Filling takes place in specially designed buildings and under strict security measures. STV GROUP currently operates two such (screw-type) lines, producing more than 240,000 rounds of ammunition of various calibres annually. And it is preparing more. In-house production of projectile bodies will reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Additionally, STV GROUP produces over 100,000 pieces of mortar ammunition annually using the traditional "casting" method.
Expanding the portfolio: also for rocket technology
In addition to producing new forged bodies for artillery ammunition, STV GROUP also manufactures mechanical components for 122 mm rockets, further strengthening its position as a comprehensive supplier in the field of ammunition.
As part of its investment program, STV GROUP plans to establish its own production of explosives, including initiating and delaying compounds, primers for infantry ammunition and medium-calibre ammunition, rocket fuel, and artillery igniters, within three years. The production of anti-tank mines is a separate project.
One of the main components for ammunition production is smokeless powder. Its global manufacturer is the state-owned company Explosia. Thanks to its new management, cooperation between the two companies has been renewed. Explosia's products complement the production of medium-calibre and large-calibre ammunition at STV GROUP. The tradition of cooperation dates back to 1920, when both Explosia in Pardubice, then known as the Czechoslovak Joint Stock Factory for Explosives, and the First Czechoslovak Ammunition Factory in Polička – today's STV GROUP production plant – were established. Even then, the synergy between the two companies was based on the production of energetic materials at Explosia and their use in final ammunition products in Polička. Today, both companies continue this more than a century-old tradition in several projects. Among the most important are the qualification, certification, and supply of Czech 155 mm NATO artillery ammunition for the Caesar 8x8 CZ howitzer. This project is not only about supplies for the Czech Army – it represents the entry of Czech industry into the global market of NATO countries. Another plan is to manufacture 120 mm ammunition for Leopard 2A8 tanks in the Czech Republic, for which Explosia would supply combustible cartridge cases and smokeless powder. Explosia would thus build on its long-standing experience in the production of combustible casings, which are part of not only 155 mm modular ammunition but also 125 mm tank ammunition, which Explosia has in its production program.
Ambition: complete independence for the Czech Republic
"Our ambition is to provide the Ministry of Defence and the Czech Republic with full independence from foreign suppliers in the field of artillery and tank ammunition. Thanks to new production capacities and partnerships with Czech suppliers, we can ensure the complete life cycle of ammunition – from development and production to service and ecological disassembly. I greatly appreciate the support of Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček, who is also responsible for the state-owned company Explosia. I also appreciate the support of Minister of Defence Jana Černochová, who has long advocated for building the Czech Republic's self-sufficiency in ammunition production," said Martin Drda, owner of the STV INVEST group, to which STV GROUP belongs.
Comprehensive facilities and services
STV GROUP has its own development centre, testing facility, and is completing the construction of a modern test firing range on its premises. The company also manufactures propellants for artillery ammunition, manages extensive ammunition depots for strategic reserves, and provides complete ammunition life cycle services, including environmentally friendly decommissioning.
Press release available for download below.
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