Rheinmetall wins $292 million contract for UK Armed Forces' propellant systems

Rheinmetall Nitrochemie, a subsidiary of the Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall Group, has been awarded exclusive responsibility for supplying the British armed forced with propellant systems and powder. The order is worth around EUR 200 million and runs for ten years. Rheinmetall Nitrochemie will serve as subcontractor to Britain’s BAE Systems, which has been selected as a key supplier of the ammunition requirements of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces under the MASS framework contract. This framework contract encompasses both practice and service ammunition of all calibres and types. (MASS stands for "Munitions Acquisition Supply Solution"). This long-term supply contract places Rheinmetall Nitrochemie at the forefront of the European military propellants and powder industry. For the British armed forces, it means significant cost savings as well as a secure supply of consistently high-quality ammunition. The order is the fruit of close cooperation between Rheinmetall Nitrochemie and BAE Systems, which already dates back eight years. Produced in state-of-the-art facilities, Rheinmetall Nitrochemie products meet the highest standards of quality. The armed forces of numerous NATO nations place their trust in the company’s products. Jointly owned by Rheinmetall AG of Germany and RUAG of Switzerland, the Rheinmetall Nitrochemie Group enjoys a global reputation for excellence. Special technical characteristics result in substantial improved end-product performance, coupled with environmental sustainability, safety and full usability in extreme temperature zones. Rheinmetall Nitrochemie’s core competencies are the development and production of propellants and propelling charges for large-, medium-, and small-calibre ammunition as well as combustible components such as the MCS modular propelling charge system for artillery applications.