Denmark Boosts European Defense with New Rocket Production
Danish company SkyPro Propulsion A/S has secured final authorization to begin the domestic production of 122mm rockets, marking a significant step in Denmark's contribution to European defense. The company plans to commence manufacturing up to 10,000 rockets annually by summer 2026. These munitions will be adapted for compatibility with both the Israeli-made PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) and the U.S.-made HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) multiple-launch rocket systems.
The initiative is set to address the critical shortage of rocket artillery in Europe and strengthen the continent's rearmament efforts, while also supporting Ukraine's ongoing defense needs.
Strategic Production Hub in Vandel
Production will be established at a former NATO air base in Vandel, Vejle Municipality, in Jutland. This strategic location, known as Defence Valley Vandel, utilizes 37 decommissioned NATO bunkers that previously stored bombs during the Cold War. SkyPro Propulsion CEO Michael Kjær Sørensen stated, 'It will be something big. We have all the necessary permits, support from the Ministry of Defence, investors, and a technical base that allows us to start production in the summer.'
The company, established on March 30, 2024, aims to leverage this existing infrastructure to rapidly scale up production. The project is expected to create approximately 110 new jobs for production workers and engineers in Vandel within the next six months.
Technology and Compatibility
SkyPro Propulsion's 122mm rockets will be based on technology provided by the Serbian defense company EDePro, specifically the G-2000SL+ rockets. These rockets are designed to have a range of just over 40 kilometers, with some reports indicating up to 41-50 km, and will carry a 24 kg warhead. Each unit is estimated to cost around EUR 10,000.
The compatibility with PULS and HIMARS systems is crucial, as both are widely used by NATO allies and have proven effective in modern conflicts. The PULS system, developed by Elbit Systems of Israel, is known for its modularity and ability to fire various rocket types. Similarly, the U.S.-made HIMARS is a highly mobile artillery rocket system capable of launching the entire MLRS family of munitions.
Broader Implications for European Security
This move signifies Denmark's transition from primarily an ammunition buyer to a producer, aligning with Europe's broader push for increased onshore munitions production and reduced dependence on external suppliers. The Danish government's National Defence Industrial Strategy emphasizes strengthening national security and supporting allied efforts. By establishing this production capability, Denmark aims to enhance its own defense capacity and contribute significantly to NATO and EU security.
The project also has ambitions beyond 122mm rockets, with plans to extend production to rockets up to 400mm in diameter as the industrial base matures.
5 Comments
Muchacha
It's great to see Denmark stepping up to reduce reliance on external suppliers for critical defense needs. Still, we need to ensure this doesn't lead to an arms race mentality.
Bella Ciao
Boosting European defense capacity is strategically important, especially now. But we must also be vigilant about the environmental footprint of such heavy industry.
Comandante
A €10,000 rocket? That's a huge waste of resources that could be used for education or healthcare.
Coccinella
More weapons won't bring peace. This just escalates tensions in the region.
Muchacho
Creating local jobs is always good, and repurposing old sites makes sense. However, I hope this doesn't overshadow efforts for diplomatic solutions to conflicts.