Finland plans to urgently build TNT plant amid shortages due to war in Ukraine

The Finnish edition Yle reports.

Finnish Defense Minister Antti Kaikkonen stated that they need to significantly increase the production of explosives. Therefore, he emphasized the need to seriously consider the role of domestic industry in this matter.

It is noted that negotiations on the establishment of the plant were held with representatives of the business community, investors, and participants of the defense industry market. Countries allies, particularly from Northern Europe, are also involved in the construction project.

According to Kaikkonen, Finland has conveyed to its partners the need for the fastest possible decision-making. He believes that decisions need to be made now so that production can begin within a year or two.

The final location for the construction of the plant has not yet been determined, but the government "wants to reach certain conclusions by the end of spring."

It's reported that the unprecedented increase in demand for TNT in Western countries has been caused by the war in Ukraine. However, Europe is facing an almost critical shortage. The sole plant in the EU is located in Poland, and its production level doesn't match the demand.

TNT is primarily used in ammunition for artillery and mortars; it's one of the standard explosive materials, and its mass production is significantly cheaper than producing new explosives.

• The newly appointed commander of Finland's armed forces, General Janne Jaakkola, recently said that an attack by Russia on NATO countries is unlikely, but that it will test unity with hybrid attacks.