In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, Denmark has commissioned Germany’s Rheinmetall to supply a wide range of ammunition under a comprehensive, long-term framework agreement. The pact, ceremonially signed on January 30, 2026, spans seven years and is valued in the hundreds of millions of euros, marking a substantial commitment by the EU and NATO member state.
The agreement encompasses several critical ammunition types essential for modern armed forces. This includes medium-calibre rounds for infantry fighting vehicles and self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, 120mm ammunition for main battle tanks, and 155mm artillery shells. The initial orders under this framework have already been placed, focusing on immediate needs in two key areas.
The first tranche covers a large volume of medium-calibre ammunition, with orders for various cartridges in 30mm x 173 and 35mm x 228 calibres. The total quantity runs into the high tens of thousands of rounds, representing an order value in the low hundreds of millions of euros. Simultaneously, Denmark has ordered over 1,000 rounds of 120mm kinetic-energy ammunition for its tank fleet, an order worth in the high single-digit millions of euros.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, highlighted the strategic importance of the deal. “We are grateful for the trust Denmark has placed in us for its ammunition supply. Rheinmetall sees this as confirmation of its role as one of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturers and a key partner for allied nations.”
This multi-year framework agreement provides Denmark with a secure, predictable supply chain for essential munitions amidst a complex global security landscape. It also underscores a broader trend within NATO of deepening defense industrial collaboration and ensuring interoperability of equipment and supplies among member states. The deal significantly strengthens Rheinmetall’s position in the European defense market and reflects ongoing efforts by nations across the alliance to systematically replenish and modernize their military stockpiles.
