The project for the German-Lithuanian artillery plant in Baisogala continues to make progress. As has only just become known, representatives from Rheinmetallthe Lithuanian energy transmission and exchange group EPSO-G, the EPSO-G company EPSO-G Invest and the Lithuanian company Giraitės ginkluotės gamykla signed a partnership agreement. This governs the acquisition of shares in Rheinmetall Defence Lietuva, which will build the production facility for 155-millimeter artillery shells.
Under the agreement, Rheinmetall will hold 51 percent of the shares in Rheinmetall Defense Lietuva. 48 percent will be owned by EPSO-G Invest and 1 percent by Giraitės ginkluotės gamykla.
“At the end of November, we signed a contract for the lease of land for the future factory in the Radviliškis district and the purchase of 155-millimeter ammunition. With the signed agreement with our Lithuanian partners, we have completed another very important stage and will now jointly plan the construction of the new factory and prepare it for operation,” says Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
“Lithuania’s energy independence and security are inextricably linked and these are the main strategic directions of the EPSO-G Group. In this project, we will use our accumulated experience in the implementation of strategic infrastructure, energy and security projects,” says Tomas Varneckas, CEO of EPSO-G Invest.
According to Violeta Kašėtienė, Interim Manager of the Giraitė Armaments Factory, the participation of the Giraitė Armaments Factory in this project is a significant step that opens up new opportunities for cooperation with one of the world’s leading companies in the defense sector. “This partnership project not only strengthens our competencies and our role in the Lithuanian defense industry, but also contributes to securing the country’s security interests. From an economic point of view, this is a targeted development step that strengthens the potential of the Lithuanian defense industry and promotes its further development,” says Violeta Kašėtienė.
The plant near Baisogala is scheduled to go into operation within the next two years and, once completed, will be able to produce tens of thousands of artillery shells with a caliber of 155 millimetres every year. According to preliminary calculations, the total investment in the plant could amount to around 260 million euros. The plant is expected to create at least 150 new direct jobs in the region.
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