Czechia’s quiet struggle for artillery shells holds lessons for Europe

Abstract

As Ukraine faces an ongoing artillery shortage, Czechia has stepped up, initiating a groundbreaking plan to secure and supply much-needed shells. Yet, the road has not been easy: Funding Gaps: Despite pledges, there’s a $1.1 billion shortfall to fully meet Ukraine’s artillery needs. Time is of the essence! Logistical Challenges: Moving artillery across continents requires complex coordination, and often, secrecy to avoid retaliation. Reliability Concerns: Some rounds have faced quality issues, highlighting the need for robust supply chains and inspections. What Can Europe Learn? With European defense spending often diverted outside the EU and environmental policies limiting production, the urgency for a cohesive industrial policy is clear. 🇪🇺 Building stronger supply chains and boosting domestic ammunition production could make all the difference in Ukraine’s battle for sovereignty.