A new automated line for producing large-calibre artillery ammunition was put in operation at ZVS Holding in Dubnica nad Vahom (Trencin region) on Tuesday with Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák (Smer-SD) in attendance.
This most modern line of its kind in Europe will contribute significantly towards increasing the production capacity in Dubnica nad Vahom to some 280,000 155-millimetre ammunition shells annually.
"The new line will ensure that Slovakia will become a leader in terms of the amount of large-calibre ammunition produced. We'll be in the top five worldwide, maybe in second place in Europe. We'll produce 1 million shells within Slovak capacities next year. This clearly speaks of the way in which we have a chance to help the Slovak economy," stressed the Minister.
Kaliňák also announced that over the next four years, 4,000 Tatra military cargo vehicles worth more than one billion euros will be produced in Moldava nad Bodvou (Kosice region).
The record contract was won by Tatra Defence Slovakia for a customer from Southeast Asia. MSM Land Systems will carry out production. Both companies are part of Czechoslovak Group, which is owned by Czech entrepreneur Michal Strnad.
"Slovakia has historically been a major producer of Tatra vehicles. The brand itself has Slovak roots, as the first vehicles with the 'Tatra' chassis were tested in our mountains. Tatra production is returning to Slovakia on a large scale, with 300 jobs to be created in Moldava nad Bodvou. I believe that this contract for 4,000 vehicles will be followed by other ones in the future," the Defence Minister underlined.
According to MSM Land Systems chief executive Michal Baláž, the plant in Moldava nad Bodvou will have to prepare quickly for a sharp increase in production. The company is also engaged in repairing towed and self-propelled howitzers and infantry fighting vehicles.
"We need more than 300 new employees to handle the record contract for 4,000 Tatra vehicles. Their recruitment and training will be a major challenge," added Balaz.
Source: TASR
