The groundbreaking project of the first Polish artillery shell has entered its next development phase! During the upcoming International Defence Industry Exhibition in Kielce, PGO S.A. will showcase 120 mm projectile bodies and a demonstrative version of the 155 mm shell body at its stand, thus addressing one of the key issues of this year’s fair – ammunition shortages. This topic also remains central to discussions on military security in Europe and represents one of the most pressing challenges for the European defence sector.
– Dynamic changes in the geopolitical situation clearly confirm that the development of domestic large-calibre ammunition production is not only justified but also necessary. The fading prospects for the end of the war in Eastern Europe have shown how illusory the belief in lasting peace on our continent was. For two decades, a pacifist trend dominated Europe, leading to reduced investments in the defence industry and neglect of production infrastructure modernization. The year 2022 was a turning point – revealing shortages even within the Alliance’s resources and reminding us that security requires tangible action. Today, in an accelerated mode, we are making up for the delays, building production capabilities that will meet future challenges, says Andrzej Bulanowski, Vice-President of PGO S.A.
As a company with strong industrial facilities and expertise in producing precision components, PGO S.A. is actively responding to these needs. Presenting the 120 mm and 155 mm projectile bodies is not only a demonstration of technological capability but also an expression of commitment to strengthening Poland’s defence potential. In the face of growing demand for large-calibre ammunition, PGO S.A.’s efforts contribute to rebuilding Europe’s production capacities and enhancing national security.
The company, which operates five specialized plants in Poland, is carrying out a breakthrough project: the first Polish 155 mm large-calibre artillery shell, developed in cooperation with the Military Institute of Armament Technology.
A Historic Project for the Polish Defence Industry
Announced in April, the “155” project is entering the next phase, with demonstration rounds after production tests to be presented at MSPO in Kielce. The fully Polish 155 mm projectile body, compliant with NATO standards, is designed to eliminate dependence on licensed production and provide full autonomy free from licensor restrictions. In addition to the widely used 155 mm shell, solutions for 120 mm mortar ammunition in innovative technological variants will also be exhibited.
It is worth noting that PGO is not limited to ammunition. The company has long been involved in defence projects for land and naval systems, with extensive experience in producing track links, chassis, and suspension components for tanks and armoured vehicles. PGO also manufactures components for mobile bridges, hydraulic drives, and control systems for naval units.
Furthermore, PGO participates in development programmes in cooperation with leading military research institutes in Poland – including the Military Institute of Armament Technology and the Air Force Institute of Technology – as well as in Germany with the Bundeswehr Technical Center for Weapons and Ammunition. Together, they are developing innovative materials and technological solutions to address the modernization needs of European armed forces.
Visit us at stand B11 in Hall 10.
