Spain orders half a million advanced artillery propellant from Germany

Europe, News August 6, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The Spanish Army has signed an agreement with Rheinmetall, a prominent German defense contractor, to supply modular propellant charges designed for 155mm extended-range artillery ammunition. The comprehensive framework agreement, valued at $223 million, spans from mid-2024 to the end of 2025, with an option for a two-year extension that could further increase the contract’s value.

This acquisition aims to replenish the Spanish Army’s ammunition stocks, which have been notably depleted due to significant donations towards the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The deal underscores Spain’s commitment to maintaining robust defense capabilities while supporting international allies.

Under the latest agreement, Rheinmetall will provide the Spanish Army with approximately half a million modular propellant charges specifically designed for 155mm artillery systems, including the widely used M109 and SIAC howitzers. These charges are essential for achieving the extended range and precision required in modern artillery warfare.

This agreement follows several notable purchases by the Spanish Army earlier this year. In April, the Army acquired mortar shells from Rheinmetall, and in March, they secured a deal for 155mm artillery ammunition. Both these contracts are slated for completion by 2025, reflecting the Army’s strategic focus on enhancing its artillery firepower.

The 155mm artillery ammunition purchased includes the ER02A1 high-explosive projectile, available in two variants: boat-tail and base-bleed. The boat-tail variant can achieve a range of up to 30 kilometers, while the base-bleed variant extends this range to 40 kilometers. These projectiles provide the Spanish Army with versatile and highly effective options for long-range engagement, crucial for modern combat scenarios.

In addition to the artillery shells, the Army’s procurement of mortar shells adds another layer of capability. The mortar rounds, which range from 2.6 to 8.3 kilometers, enhance the Army’s short to medium-range fire support, providing flexibility and rapid response in various operational contexts.

The replenishment of ammunition stocks is not only a matter of maintaining operational readiness but also a strategic imperative in the context of ongoing global conflicts. The war in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of sustained artillery support and the need for reliable and efficient supply chains in military logistics.

By securing these advanced propellant charges and ammunition from Rheinmetall, the Spanish Army ensures it can maintain a high level of preparedness and support its troops with the necessary firepower. “This agreement is a crucial step in bolstering our artillery capabilities and ensuring that our forces are well-equipped to meet any challenges,” stated a representative from the Spanish Ministry of Defense.

Rheinmetall’s modular propellant charges represent cutting-edge technology in artillery ammunition. These charges are designed to optimize the performance of 155mm projectiles, providing greater accuracy, extended range, and improved overall effectiveness in combat. The modular design allows for flexibility in adjusting the charge size, catering to different operational requirements, and enhancing the versatility of the artillery systems.

*^{Ukrainian artilleryusing 155 mm 52-calibre self-propelled howitzer to fire on Russian positions near Adviivka. (Image Credit: Twitter/@openforum_au)}*

The integration of such advanced technology into the Spanish Army’s arsenal underscores a broader trend in modernizing military forces with state-of-the-art equipment. This modernization is critical in maintaining a competitive edge in contemporary warfare, where precision, range, and reliability are paramount.