France’s defense industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. At the forefront of this shift is Eurenco, a leading explosives manufacturer, which has relocated its gunpowder production back to France. This move marks a significant milestone in reviving Europe’s defense industrial sector.
Located in Bergerac, southwestern France, Eurenco’s facility is nestled in the heart of the Dordogne region, known for its rich medieval history. The company’s decision to restart gunpowder production in France is a strategic response to the country’s dependence on external suppliers. As Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu pointed out, “France dropped its gunpowder production capacities at the start of the 2000s, which made no sense”.
With a significant investment of 100 million euros, half of which came from an EU program, Eurenco has established new infrastructure in record time. The facility will initially produce 1,200 tonnes of gunpowder pellets annually, increasing to 1,800 tonnes, which will be used to manufacture around 100,000 artillery shells. These shells will be primarily used in NATO-standard 155mm caliber artillery, such as the Caesar Howitzer canons.
France’s history of producing gunpowder dates back to the 14th century, and the country has long taken pride in its self-sufficiency in arms production. However, after the Cold War, the focus shifted to more lucrative military hardware, leading to a decline in smaller, less profitable businesses like explosive powder production.
The war in Ukraine has forced Europe to reassess its defense industry, and Eurenco’s project is a prime example of this shift. As Damien Ayesa, Eurenco’s project director, noted, “Our objective is to be autonomous and sovereign” ¹. The company aims to achieve this by producing 10% of its output for domestic use, with the remaining 90% earmarked for export, primarily to Ukraine.
While Eurenco’s efforts are promising, the road ahead is not without challenges. Strict safety regulations and the need to source raw materials from overseas are just a few of the hurdles the company must overcome. Nevertheless, Eurenco’s commitment to reviving France’s gunpowder production capabilities marks a significant step towards reducing the country’s dependence on external suppliers and bolstering its defense industry.
