Every day, vast quantities of ammunition circulate for use in Ukraine. The numbers are staggering: thousands of tons daily, with artillery shells accelerating the tempo of the conflict. Official figures cited by news agencies indicate Ukraine fires about 7,000 artillery rounds each day, while Russia fires roughly 20,000. Neither Ukraine nor its NATO allies can meet the demand at this pace, and the strain on production lines is evident. Diplomats note that sustaining this level of expenditure is challenging, which is why the European Union is urging a coordinated joint ammunition purchase program and the United States — the main supplier — continues to expand contracts and broaden the supplier base to boost production.
Various defense officials and analysts point to the intense use of ammunition as a defining feature of the current phase of the war. A former military chief, speaking to a European media outlet, described how modern artillery tactics resemble those from earlier conflicts, with artillery barriers and trench attacks still playing a central role. This reminder underscores the persistent demand for reliable, mass-produced munitions, even as new weapons platforms come online.
155 caliber ammunition
Among all munitions, 155 mm shells are of utmost importance. The ongoing supply of this caliber is described as the most pressing issue by EU foreign policy leadership. The message is clear: without steady delivery of 155 mm ammunition, strategic outcomes on the battlefield are at risk. These shells are metal warheads weighing several kilograms, containing explosives, and are designed for use with modern artillery systems deployed along the eastern front. They have been central to the fighting on a broad front, contributing to significant loss of life on both sides.
A military analyst notes that Western artillery support has shifted toward 155 mm systems as Ukraine replaces older Soviet-era guns with new Western howitzers. The transition has increased reliance on this specific ammunition, which remains scarce and difficult to ramp up quickly in large quantities.
Estonia recently proposed a joint purchase plan for around one million rounds of 155 mm ammunition, totaling about 4 billion euros. The idea mirrors a successful pooled procurement approach used during the pandemic to ensure critical supplies. The plan depends on longer-term contracts with weapons manufacturers to adjust their production priorities. If advanced, the proposal would be considered within the European Peace Mechanism, with a final decision expected from defense ministers meeting soon.
war production surge
Across the Atlantic, the United States has entered a sustained production push, aiming to increase Western howitzers in service and ready for delivery. Current monthly output sits around 15,000 rounds, with a goal of reaching about 90,000 rounds to meet the needs of Ukraine. This push involves new manufacturers and expanded factories, a scale not seen since earlier height of conflict periods. Contracts with major defense firms are part of this expansion, funded under a broad support program and intended to accelerate deliveries next spring. Analysts note that procurement strategies historically favored precision and smaller lots, but the current urgency favors higher volumes to sustain frontline operations.
Military authorities explain that the shortage stems not only from resupply gaps to Ukraine but also from depleted Western stockpiles. A practical way to measure supply is through the number of days of sustenance allocated to various units, with reserves kept for emergencies. The reality is that stockpiles have finite lifespans, and reloading cycles must be managed carefully to maintain readiness without compromising future needs.
Spain anchors part of the response by replenishing ammunition sent to Ukraine. Specific disposable launchers from a Spanish manufacturer have gained attention for ease of use and battlefield utility against armored targets. Public procurement records confirm government decisions to purchase millions of units of these launchers to support ongoing operations. This example illustrates how multiple nations are coordinating aid through direct acquisitions and industrial support.
The global push to equip allies has also spurred shifts in defense budgets. Japan has launched a broad modernization drive for its armed forces, while Germany announced ambitious investment plans to bolster defense capabilities. In the United Kingdom, concerns about stockpiles have prompted warnings from senior officials about the need for sustained increases in defense spending to avoid future shortages.