In Bergerac, France (Reuters) – Automated systems whirr as raw materials are fed into the machines to kickstart the production of highly-explosive pellets destined for use in French-made artillery shells bound for Ukraine. Situated against the backdrop of Dordogne’s rich medieval history, explosives manufacturer Eurenco is leading the charge in bringing back a lost skill to France and showcasing Europe’s capacity to revitalize its defense industrial sector.
Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu expressed astonishment at France’s decision to relinquish gunpowder production capabilities in the early 2000s. “We could construct the bomb bodies and modular charges, but lacked the ability to manufacture the necessary gunpowder, leading us to rely on sources within and outside the European Union,” he stated.
With the support of the government and an investment of 100 million euros ($108 million), half of which was provided by an EU initiative to bolster the defense industry, Eurenco swiftly established new facilities within a year. The company is set to produce approximately 1,200 tonnes of gunpowder pellets annually, increasing to 1,800 tonnes, supplying around 100,000 artillery shells, notably the NATO-standard 155mm caliber utilized, for instance, in the Caesar Howitzer cannons.
France has a longstanding tradition of gunpowder production dating back to the 14th Century. Despite this, post-Cold War priorities shifted away from weapons manufacture and supply chains, resulting in the neglect of less lucrative ventures like explosive powder production, which were supplanted by imports.
Eurenco, renowned for its modular charges propelling artillery shells, outsourced its gunpowder production to subsidiaries in Sweden and Germany in 2007, rendering France entirely dependent on foreign partners.
The conflict in Ukraine has spurred Europe to reinvent its defense industry, given Moscow’s perceived threat and the unpredictable nature of the United States under President Donald Trump. This scenario indicates a continuous stream of orders for weapon manufacturers, presenting an opportunity for investment, long-term growth, and job creation in neglected sectors.
Eurenco’s project director, Damien Ayesa, disclosed that 10% of the production is intended for domestic use, with the bulk earmarked for export, particularly to Ukraine. Operations will run around the clock to meet demand.
Yet, the journey has been beset with challenges, as France’s war economy struggles to catch up with Russia’s pace. Stringent safety regulations and sourcing raw materials pose significant hurdles. While two of the three key elements for pellet production are locally obtained, the third requires overseas sourcing, prompting Eurenco to explore solutions to this supply chain issue.
“Our ultimate goal is to achieve self-sufficiency and sovereignty,” Ayesa affirmed.
($1 = 0.9238 euros)
(Reporting by John Irish; Editing by Peter Graff)
