Finland has announced a partnership with Forcit, a Finnish explosives manufacturer, to build a new TNT plant. The move comes as the European Union seeks to increase its munitions production capacity in response to the war in Ukraine.
The Finnish Ministry of Defence signed a letter of intent with Forcit on Friday, June 2, 2023, for the acquisition of TNT explosives. The new plant is expected to cost over €200 million and will significantly boost Europe's TNT production capacity, which is currently limited.
Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen stated that the new plant will address the shortage of explosives and munitions production issues across Europe. He added that the project will be "of major importance for increasing munitions production in Europe" and will "also contribute to the continued long-term support of Ukraine."
The European Union has been working to increase its arms production to support Ukraine and bolster its own defense capabilities. Nineteen EU countries, including France and Germany, have called on the European Investment Bank (EIB) to finance rearmament efforts in the face of Russia's aggression.
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized the importance of strengthening EU defense, stating that it is "an existential issue for Finland and for Europe as a whole." He highlighted the need to utilize all available resources, including private funding, to achieve this goal.