Rheinmetall opens new medium-calibre ammunition facility in Spain
Rheinmetall's subsidiary has commissioned a new production facility for medium-calibre ammunition in Albacete, Spain. The investment significantly increases the company's production capacity.
German defence contractor Rheinmetall has opened a new, modern production facility for medium-calibre ammunition at its subsidiary Rheinmetall Expal Munitions site in Albacete, Spain. Operations commenced in October 2026 as part of the company's broader 'Firepower' project, aimed at expanding ammunition production capacity in Europe.
The new facility is designed to produce approximately three million components for medium-calibre ammunition annually. This includes around 1.2 million projectiles and 1.8 million cartridge cases in calibres ranging from 20 mm to 35 mm. These components will be supplied to other Rheinmetall facilities, such as the one in Burgos, for the manufacturing of ammunition for infantry fighting vehicles and anti-aircraft gun systems.
The investment in the modernized and expanded facility amounted to approximately 20 million euros. The workforce at the Albacete site is expected to grow by about one-third, from 210 to 300 employees. The plant is also expanding its traditional core competence in the production of mortar systems, and is anticipated to serve the needs of NATO and its allies. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted Albacete's strategic importance for the company, Spain, and Europe in strengthening defence capabilities. Amparo Valcarce, Spain's Secretary of State for Defence, stated that a robust defence industry is essential for preserving peace.