Strengthening Europe’s artillery ammunition production capabilities starts with the right partnerships. Northrop Grumman Polska S.A. and Elaboracja Niewiadów Sp. z o.o., with the participation of Niewiadów Polska Grupa Militarna S.A. and ZSP Niewiadów Sp. z o.o., have signed a framework agreement setting out the terms of cooperation regarding the production and further marketing of 155 mm artillery ammunition intended for the European market.
The signing of the framework agreement marks the next stage in the cooperation that began with the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed last September. In a relatively short period of time, the parties have moved from declarations to formalized agreements that will enable the implementation of joint industrial and market projects in Poland.
The partnership combines the complementary expertise of both parties. Northrop Grumman brings its experience in the design and manufacture of artillery ammunition and advanced manufacturing technologies, while the companies belonging to Niewiadów Polska Grupa Militarna S.A. contribute expertise in the development, assembly, and final integration of the product. The partnership model provides for a flexible approach to the implementation of joint production and commercial initiatives, allowing the parties to take the lead—including in market activities—depending on the nature of the project.
The first area of cooperation is the joint production of a 155-mm artillery shell, which is currently in an advanced stage of preparation for the certification process. The framework agreement also serves as the basis for further development of joint activities related to certification, implementation, and marketing of the product.
The collaboration involves the use of ADI (Austempered Ductile Iron) technology in the manufacturing process of artillery projectile bodies. ADI is an example of a proven, commercial manufacturing process that has been successfully adapted for demanding defense applications. This technology enables performance parameters comparable to those of steel, while reducing implementation time, facilitating design modifications, and allowing for the scaling of production to high volumes.
Northrop Grumman is a pioneer in the use of ADI technology in the production of artillery ammunition—hundreds of projectiles have already been tested and successfully fired. This represents a significant shift from the traditional approach to manufacturing projectile bodies by reducing the need to retool production lines and shortening response times to market demands.
— The rapid transition from an agreement to a framework contract demonstrates how effectively we can work together to meet the growing demand for artillery ammunition in Europe. “Our goal is to develop modern, scalable production capabilities and implement them effectively,” said Mirosław Klepaczewski, CEO of Elaboracja Niewiadów.
— “The framework agreement enables the integration of Northrop Grumman’s advanced manufacturing technologies with the production capabilities and expertise of the companies within the Niewiadów Polska Grupa Militarna, laying the groundwork both for expanding production in Poland and for joint market initiatives aimed at offering turnkey solutions, ” added Adam Januszko, President of the Management Board of Niewiadów Polska Grupa Militarna S.A.
“ This partnership allows Northrop Grumman to bring its world-class expertise in ammunition design and ADI production technology directly into the European defense ecosystem. Together, we can quickly scale up production in response to security needs,” said Krzysztof Krystowski, Country Director at Northrop Grumman Polska S.A.
The parties emphasize their interest in further developing their cooperation and capitalizing on the opportunities arising from the combination of innovative technologies with the European industrial base.
