Danish Firm to Boost European Rocket Supply
The Danish company SkyPro Propulsion A/S has secured final authorization to begin the domestic production of 122mm rockets. This initiative, announced after a year and a half of securing necessary permits, aims to commence output by summer 2026, with an ambitious target of manufacturing up to 10,000 units annually. The rockets are designed to be compatible with modern multiple-launch rocket systems, including the PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) and HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) platforms.
SkyPro Propulsion CEO Michael Kjær Sørensen stated that the company has 'all the necessary permits, support from the Ministry of Defence, investors, and a technical base' to begin production.
Production Details and Technology Transfer
The manufacturing operations will be established in Vandel, near Billund in Jutland, utilizing 37 decommissioned NATO bunkers at a former air base. This site, previously used for storing bombs and explosives during the Cold War, offers a secured environment for the production of military equipment.
The 122mm rockets will be produced using technology licensed from the Serbian defense company EDePro. Specifically, SkyPro Propulsion plans to manufacture the G-2000SL+ variant, an improved version of EDePro's G-2000 family. These rockets are expected to have a range of just over 40 kilometers, carry a 24 kg warhead, and cost approximately EUR 10,000 per unit. Their design ensures a circular error probable of less than 1% of the maximum range.
The project is anticipated to create around 110 new jobs for production workers and engineers in Vandel. While most metalworking will be handled by Danish subcontractors, the final assembly of the missiles will take place at the Vandel facility.
Strategic Importance for Denmark and Europe
This move signifies a pivotal shift for Denmark, transitioning from primarily being an ammunition buyer to becoming a producer of military rockets. The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in alleviating Europe's current shortage of rocket artillery and supporting Ukraine's ongoing demand for 122mm munitions.
The Danish government's approval process involved thorough reviews by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, and the Danish Defence Intelligence Service. This scrutiny was particularly focused on the technology transfer from Serbia, given Serbia's historical ties with Russia.
Compatibility with PULS and HIMARS Systems
The newly produced 122mm rockets are designed for full compatibility with both the Israeli-made PULS and the US-made HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems. Denmark has already acquired eight PULS launchers from Israel, with deliveries completed by early 2024.
The PULS system is known for its versatility, capable of launching various rocket types, including 122mm Grad rockets, and can be adapted to different vehicle platforms. This domestic production capability will enhance Denmark's and its allies' ability to sustain these critical artillery systems.
6 Comments
Muchacho
Enhancing European self-sufficiency in defense is a commendable goal, especially for supporting allies like Ukraine. Still, the delay until 2026 means this won't address immediate needs, and the transfer of technology from EDePro requires absolute transparency and rigorous oversight to prevent any unintended consequences.
ZmeeLove
Serbia tech transfer? Given their Russia ties, this is a massive security risk!
Habibi
EUR 10,000 per rocket is an outrageous cost. Taxpayer money could be better spent.
lettlelenok
Great to see Denmark transitioning from buyer to producer. Essential for national resilience.
ytkonos
This strengthens European security and reduces reliance on external suppliers. Crucial for our future.
dedus mopedus
Another step towards endless militarization. We need diplomacy, not more war machines.