KEY POINTS
- Northrop Grumman and Poland’s Niewiadow-PGM signed a framework agreement to produce 155-mm artillery shells.
- The partnership aims to manufacture over 180,000 rounds annually at a new facility in Poland.
- Production will utilize advanced “Austempered Ductile Iron” technology to speed up manufacturing and lower costs.
Northrop Grumman has entered into a strategic partnership with Polish arms manufacturer Niewiadow-PGM to significantly boost the production of 155-mm artillery ammunition. According to a framework agreement signed in February 2026, the two companies plan to produce more than 180,000 shells per year at a specialized facility in Poland. This collaboration is designed to address the severe ammunition shortages facing European allies and Ukraine, where 155-mm shells remain a critical requirement for ongoing defense operations.
The partnership will leverage Northrop Grumman’s proprietary Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) technology. Unlike traditional forging methods, this casting and heat-treatment process allows for faster production cycles and reduced manufacturing costs. Executives noted that the technology is highly scalable, providing a foundation for future capacity increases as regional demand continues to grow. Production is expected to begin later in 2026, with the output serving the United States, Poland, and other European markets.
Poland has emerged as a vital strategic hub for U.S. defense contractors due to its record-high military spending, which is projected to reach 4.8% of its GDP this year—the highest among NATO members. Northrop Grumman is also reportedly in advanced talks with another Polish manufacturer, Mesko, regarding the co-production of 30-mm and 120-mm ammunition. These initiatives reflect a broader effort by Western defense firms to localize manufacturing within Europe to ensure more resilient supply chains.
The new facility in Poland will not only bolster NATO’s eastern flank but also provide a reliable source of high-quality ammunition for global exports. Company officials emphasized that the move is part of a long-term commitment to expanding their European manufacturing footprint. By integrating American technology with Poland’s growing industrial base, the partners aim to provide a “ready-made solution” for nations seeking to replenish their strategic stockpiles in an increasingly volatile security environment.
