The Israeli Ministry of Defense has announced its procurement of “tens of thousands” of 155-millimeter artillery shells from defense giant Elbit Systems.
The acquisition, valued at more than $60 million, will ensure that the country has enough ammunition in its stockpiles amid high global demand due to the war in Ukraine.
According to defense ministry procurement official Zeev Landau, the new artillery shells will improve the capabilities and readiness of the Israeli Defense Force in anticipation of diverse combat scenarios.
“The artillery shell production line is essential, and the Ministry of Defense has made substantial investments in it for many years,” he said.
The shells are expected to be delivered in 2024.
The Israel Ministry of Defense signed an agreement worth over $60 million to acquire tens of thousands of 155mm artillery shells from @ElbitSystemsLtd. The contract will be executed over the period of one year, with the artillery shells expected to be delivered during 2024. pic.twitter.com/E8VC4xegkz
— Ministry of Defense (@Israel_MOD) July 31, 2023
Global Demand
The need for more artillery shells to prepare for future wars has been fueled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Kyiv is reportedly firing thousands of shells per day, causing the US to increase ammunition donations to its war-torn ally.
According to a report by Breaking Defense, the large number of munitions being used by Ukraine is affecting global stockpiles.
Washington was said to have removed 300,000 155mm shells from Israeli stocks to aid Kyiv’s forces.
The stocks are owned by the US but stored in Jerusalem and can be accessed by the Israeli Defense Force in case of emergencies.
The US Department of Defense announced in January that it would increase production of artillery shells by 500 percent to replenish stockpiles and cope with global demand.
