SAAB CEO, Michael Johansson, warns that Europe faces a serious threat because of its significant dependence on China in the production of gunpowder for ammunition. It calls for governments to reduce environmental restrictions to facilitate diversification of the supply chains of military components.
According to Johansson, China plays a key role in the supply of raw materials for the defense industry of EU countries, while also providing support for Russian military machine by Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Johansson warns that an increase in diversification of sources of supply of ingredients for gunpowder is critical, especially in providing gunpowder used in military operations.
He points out that there are significant challenges in the European Defense Industry, including the supply of gunpowder and nitrocellulose required for its production.
The article also points out that since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, European defense companies have rapidly increasing the production of ammunition to support Ukraine and for internal defense. The inability of Western countries to provide sufficient ammunition to Kiev determines the military results of the conflict.
According to the European Commission, Europe will produce 2 million shells a year by 2026, but the lack of metal and explosive gunpowder prevents the acceleration of this process.
