Rheinmetall: Muni for the F-35 JSF

Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions is preparing to be the first Australian company to produce and export medium-caliber ammunition for the US F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.

The joint venture Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions is starting production of 25mm Frangible Armour Piercing (FAP) projectiles at the Benalla plant in Victoria.

With this program, the joint venture is expanding its business scope beyond the artillery shell plant in Maryborough, Queensland.

Within the Rheinmetall Group, Rheinmetall Weapon Ammunition is known worldwide for cutting-edge technology, innovation, quality, and over 125 years of experience in the development and production of defense systems and products, especially in the areas of weapon systems, ammunition, and ammunition components. The Australian company NIOA is a leading manufacturer and supplier of weapons and ammunition for the Australian Defense Forces.

The new production line in Benalla was designed to produce medium-caliber ammunition from 20mm to 35mm. Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions is therefore able to offer a second source of supply for 25mm Joint Strike Fighter ammunition to ensure the security of supply for the United States government.

Werner Krämer, Chairman of the RNM Board of Directors, said that expanding the activities of the joint venture in Australia was a logical next step after the successful start of the Maryborough project.

“We are fully committed to this joint venture in the Australian market,” said Krämer. “By intending to produce this medium-caliber ammunition here in Australia, we not only aim to create jobs locally, but also to develop a strong and sustainable export market."

NIOA Managing Director Robert Nioa emphasized that establishing manufacturing in Benalla is a fully private investment and another important step in building the defense industry in Australia: “This independent manufacturing capability of medium-caliber ammunition and the associated capability building will also enable the supply of locally manufactured ammunition to the Australian Defense Forces in the future."

The production line is expected to be set up in the first half of 2021 and to start regular operations in September 2021.

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