Kosovo, Türkiye’s MKE sign agreement to establish NATO-standard ammunition factory
An agreement was signed between the Kosovo government and the Machinery and Chemical Industry Co. (MKE) for the start-up of the factory planned to produce ammunition of different calibers in this country. (Kosovo Prime Ministry - AA Photo)
Kosovo has signed an agreement with Türkiye’s state-owned defense manufacturer, Machinery and Chemical Industry Co. (MKE), to establish an ammunition factory capable of producing various calibers to NATO standards.
The agreement was signed by Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and MKE General Manager Ilhami Keles.
Factory to operate as local public enterprise
According to the agreement, the factory will initially receive machinery and technical support from MKE.
This includes training Kosovo personnel, maintaining equipment for a specified period, and installing quality control and calibration systems. Once operational, the factory will reportedly function as a 100% locally branded public enterprise, contributing to Kosovo’s long-term defense sustainability.
Kosovo PM Albin Kurti highlights bilateral cooperation
Kosovo Prime Minister Kurti emphasized the importance of the partnership during the signing ceremony: “We have conducted joint exercises with the Turkish army and acquired equipment, ammunition, and weapons from Türkiye. Now, it is time to produce together in our country.”
Today, we signed a pivotal agreement for our country’s defense. Our new partnership with the Turkish company MKE, the country’s leading defense company, will enable Kosova to operationalize our military ammunition factory, which will produce according to NATO standards. The agreement also includes provisions for staff training and the implementation of leading technology. Once the factory becomes operational, it will function as a 100% public company.
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti
Statements from officials about Kosovo-MKE deal
Turkish MKE’s General Manager Ilhami Keles also made a statement on his social media account X, and said: “It is a matter of pride that Kosovo’s first defense industry investment will be made through MKE. With this contract, the foundations of the Kosovo Defense Industry will be laid. Our cooperation will continue to develop in the future.”
“We are proud to carry Türkiye’s defense industry experience to friendly countries,” he added.
Kosovo Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci also underlined the importance of the project:
“This initiative not only improves Kosovo’s security but also supports regional peace and stability. It is a significant step toward building our country’s defense industry.”
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