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Ukraine Recalls Defective 120mm Mortar Shells Amid Quality Concerns
Ukraine is in the process of recalling a significant number of 120mm mortar shells that have been reported as defective by soldiers in the field. This recall comes at a challenging time for Ukraine, as it seeks to enhance its domestic ammunition production capabilities.
Recent reports from Ukrainian media indicate that around 100,000 locally manufactured artillery rounds are affected by this issue, signaling a setback in Ukraine’s military supply efforts.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry announced this recall earlier this week, attributing it to defects found in a newly delivered batch of shells. The ministry is actively investigating reports of “abnormal activation” of these shells over the past few weeks. Although specific numbers of affected rounds were not disclosed, media coverage has highlighted the substantial scale of the recall.
In a recent statement, the defense ministry indicated an ongoing investigation into the underlying causes of the defects, which may include factors such as poor-quality powder charges or improper storage conditions for the ammunition.
The issues with the 120mm rounds—typically utilized in mortars—were first reported in early November by Censor.Net, a media outlet noted for its defense coverage. Reports from the field included accounts from Ukrainian soldiers who explained that many shells failed to detonate or only traveled short distances. It was suggested that only about one in ten rounds functioned as expected.
Additionally, local broadcaster TSN reported incidents where mortar shells became stuck in weapon barrels, with units describing issues relating to wet powder charges—an essential element for propelling the munitions accurately.
Yuriy Butusov, editor of Censor.Net, shared a separate video via his YouTube channel, revealing that a commander had instructed several Ukrainian brigades to withdraw around 100,000 of these problematic shells from frontline use.
Investigative journalist Yuriy Nikolov corroborated these reports, emphasizing the significant volume of shells affected, which are believed to represent approximately six months of ammunition supply needs. The shells were reportedly produced by Ukroboronprom, a key state-owned manufacturer.
The Ministry of Defense is believed to be looking into the implications of recent weather conditions on the defects, with a parliamentary representative, Fedir Venislavskyi, suggesting that cold and humid weather might have contributed to the problems observed with the shells.
Despite the challenges posed by this recall, Kyiv has prioritized expanding its local ammunition production, especially after facing significant shortages earlier this year due to delays in foreign military aid. Throughout 2024, Ukraine has reportedly produced a staggering 2.5 million rounds of artillery and mortar ammunition, a critical need as it continues to counter a sustained Russian offensive.
The recall has ignited domestic debates about ammunition quality and procurement processes, with accusations of recurring quality control issues. Earlier procurement scandals, involving overrated supplies for food and clothing, have amplified scrutiny on the defense sector.
The defense ministry has noted that a criminal investigation has commenced regarding the 120mm shell situation, although details remain limited due to security concerns.
Read the original article on Business Insider.
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