Nammo Advances New Percussion Primer Production in Finland, Full Output Expected by 2027

Nammo has entered the operational start-up phase of its new percussion primer manufacturing facility in Vihtavuori, Finland, according to the latest reporting by Finnish national media. The plant, described locally as a nallitehdas (primer factory), has been physically completed and is now undergoing final installations and commissioning ahead of serial production.

Finnish public broadcaster Yle reports that the facility is currently running initial testing and qualification processes, including trial runs with inert materials. Full-scale industrial output is expected to be reached gradually, with maximum production capacity planned for 2027.

Strategic Capacity for Ammunition Supply

Once fully operational, the Vihtavuori primer plant is expected to produce up to approximately 400 million percussion primers annually, making it the only such facility of its kind currently operating in the Nordic region. The project forms part of Finland’s broader effort to strengthen national and regional security of supply for critical ammunition components.

Finnish media describe the facility as a key element in reducing dependence on imported primers, which have become a major bottleneck in global ammunition supply chains following increased demand from European armed forces.

Focus on Small-Arms Ammunition

According to Finnish reporting, initial production will focus on small-arms percussion primers, intended for pistol and rifle ammunition. While Nammo has not publicly released a detailed breakdown by caliber, the coverage indicates that early output will support standard military and service ammunition categories used by Nordic and allied forces.

The primary customer during the initial phase is expected to be the Finnish Defence Forces, with additional volumes later allocated to Nammo’s own ammunition production network and export markets once qualification is complete.

Investment and Workforce

The Vihtavuori primer facility represents an investment estimated by Finnish sources at €30–40 million. The plant is expected to employ approximately 40–50 specialized personnel, operating under high safety and automation standards typical for energetic-materials production.

Local authorities and national media have highlighted the project as strategically significant, particularly in the context of Finland’s NATO membership and increased European defence-industrial cooperation.

Gradual Ramp-Up, Not Immediate Mass Output

Finnish media emphasize that the factory is not yet operating at full industrial tempo. Instead, Nammo is following a staged ramp-up process, including certification, safety validation, and production qualification—standard practice for primer manufacturing due to the sensitivity of the processes involved.

As a result, meaningful commercial volumes are expected progressively through 2026, with full rated capacity targeted for 2027.

About Nammo

Nammo is one of Europe’s leading ammunition and rocket motor manufacturers, jointly owned by the Norwegian state, the Finnish state, and Saab AB. The group operates production facilities across Europe and North America and is a key supplier to NATO and allied armed forces. Nammo’s portfolio spans small-, medium-, and large-calibre ammunition, rocket motors, propellants, and advanced energetic materials, with a strong focus on security of supply, industrial resilience, and high-volume manufacturing under strict safety standards.