Ukroboronprom and NATO country launch joint production of 120mm shells

MOSCOW. Feb 10 (Interfax) - The Ukroboronprom state-owned defense company of Ukraine and one of the NATO member countries have begun jointly producing 120mm shells, and a contract for their delivery was signed with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry a few days ago.

"Such 120 mm shells are being made using modern technologies. The production facilities are dispersed, in particular, some of them are located in one of European states," Ukrainian media said, citing Ukroboronprom's statement published on its website.

According to the company, 120mm mortars are among the most widespread types of artillery weapons in Ukraine and are capable of hitting targets at a distance of up to 7 km, and more than 8 km if modern ammunition is used.

Ukroboronprom said that it had earlier launched the serial production of 82mm mortar rounds abroad.

"Whereas 82mm shells are produced based on the technology fine-tuned by specialists of Ukroboronprom enterprises by employees of the company's enterprises, but outside of Ukraine, then 120mm shell is a joint weapon with the Western allies," it said.