Key facts
- A large explosion occurred at the KNDS Ammo Italy munitions factory in Colleferro, Italy.
- The facility produces 155 mm artillery shells supplied to Ukraine.
- No casualties were reported following the incident.
- KNDS has launched an investigation into the explosion.
A large-scale blast hit an ammunition factory in Colleferro, Italy, operated by KNDS Ammo Italy, a subsidiary of the French-German defense firm KNDS. The facility produces 155 mm artillery shells that are supplied to Ukraine through European partners. The explosion, which occurred on August 13, caused a fire in the plant's gunpowder processing and compression unit. Local authorities and media reported that employees followed evacuation protocols and reached safe zones, resulting in no casualties. The mayor of Colleferro stated that the situation was under control. KNDS has initiated an investigation into the incident. The factory manufactures large- and medium-caliber munitions for land and naval forces and cooperates with Ukraine on NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition production.