Link to the article: https://news.northropgrumman.com/munitions/Northrop-Grumman-and-Elaboracja-Niewiadow-Sign-Strategic-MOU-to-Bolster-Polish-Munitions
WARSAW, Poland – Sept. 18, 2025 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Elaboracja Niewiadow Sp. z o.o. (Niewiadów Group) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing their intention to explore areas of collaboration regarding 155mm ammunition for Poland.
The MOU focuses on:
Northrop Grumman’spotential delivery of 155mm Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) shells and assistance to Elaboracja Niewiadow in the development of 155mm artillery rounds that meet Polish military requirements.
Using an innovative heat treatment process that is common in commercial manufacturing but new to the defense industry, Northrop Grumman manufactures shells made of Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI), which is lighter, less expensive, and retains the strength of forged steel, offering greater manufacturing flexibility.
The Niewiadów Group has the potential to upgrade its existing facilities to produce the final 155mm rounds using ADI shells.
Experts:
Frank DeMauro, sector vice president and general manager of weapon systems at Northrop Grumman:“We expect this MOU will help Poland establish a diverse supply base to meet the growing demand for artillery in Central and Eastern Europe. Our expertise in munitions and advanced manufacturing methods will enable the use of existing commercial facilities to increase supplies without placing additional strain on Poland’s defense industrial base. This would complement other efforts to expand munitions manufacturing in Poland.”
Mirosław Klepaczewski, President of the Management Board, Elaboracja Niewiadów Sp. z o.o.:“For Poland, this MOU is crucial for the rapid development of 155mm ammunition for the Krab and K9 systems. At the same time, it expands our role far beyond national needs—positioning Poland as a key hub for advanced artillery ammunition within NATO. Together with Northrop Grumman, we aim not only to secure Poland’s defense but also to contribute to the stability and security of our allies in Europe.”
Grzegorz Niedzielski, President of the Management Board, Grupa Niewiadów–PGM:“This collaboration confirms that the Polish defense industry can play a key role in NATO’s security system. Our cooperation with Northrop Grumman will not only enable us to expand our technological and production capabilities, but also to strengthen Poland’s industrial sovereignty. Our ambition is for Grupa Niewiadów–PGM to become a lasting pillar of the European artillery ammunition supply chain—capable of meeting the needs of both the Polish Armed Forces and our allies.”
Details:
Northrop Grumman has pioneered the development of Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) for projectile bodies, enabling the use of commercial manufacturing technology to accelerate the deployment of new rounds, increase production, and strengthen the supply chain. ADI 155mm projectiles are now being manufactured using a sand-casting process at a foundry and heat treatment facility with an annual production capacity of 50,000 metric tons. This cast manufacturing method for artillery could expand the defense industrial base to include existing factories in the United States and throughout Europe.
Elaboracja Niewiadów Sp. z o.o. is a specialized company jointly owned by Forum 119 Closed-End Investment Fund and Grupa Niewiadów – PGM S.A. (WSE: GNS), established to develop medium- and large-caliber ammunition, including 155 mm rounds. By utilizing advanced filling technology, the company ensures precision and consistency in explosive loading processes.
The Niewiadów Group – PGM S.A. is a defense consortium listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, focused on the development and production of advanced military technologies. The Group’s portfolio includes small-, medium-caliber, and 155 mm ammunition, which is critical for the Krab and K9 artillery systems. Through its specialized subsidiaries, including ZSP Niewiadów, Grupa Niewiadów handles all stages of production, integration, final assembly, testing, certification, and sales.
Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions empower our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our employees redefine what’s possible every day.