Sweden Rebuilds TNT Factory – Cold War Echoes
- A Swedish startup is bringing defense tech back to basics, launching the nation's first TNT factory since the Cold War era.
- The investment group includes notable figures such as Thomas von Koch, co-founder of venture capital firm EQT; Pär Svärdson, a serial entrepreneur; and Karl Engelbrektson, Sweden’s former army...
- Swebal founder Joakim Sjöblom said the funding will accelerate the factory's construction, strengthening European security by addressing critical gaps in ammunition production.
Sweden ignites its defense capabilities, planning to revive TNT production for the first time as the Cold War. Swebal, a Stockholm startup, secured €3 million for a new TNT factory, aiming for over 4,000 tonnes of annual production by 2027. With backing from top Swedish business adn military figures, including the former army chief, this initiative directly addresses European security concerns and the crucial need for increased ammunition, placing Sweden at the forefront of bolstering european defense. This project highlights an critically important shift toward fortifying conventional defense. Read all about it in News Directory 3. Discover what’s next as the factory awaits final approvals.
Sweden Revives TNT Production Amid European Security Concerns
Updated June 18, 2025
A Swedish startup is bringing defense tech back to basics, launching the nation’s first TNT factory since the Cold War era. stockholm-based Swebal has secured a €3 million investment for the plant, which is projected to begin full operation in late 2027. The new factory, located in Nora, about three hours from Stockholm, is expected to produce more than 4,000 tonnes of TNT annually, considerably boosting Europe’s ammunition production capacity.
The investment group includes notable figures such as Thomas von Koch, co-founder of venture capital firm EQT; Pär Svärdson, a serial entrepreneur; and Karl Engelbrektson, Sweden’s former army chief. This backing underscores the strategic importance of the project amid growing security concerns.
Swebal founder Joakim Sjöblom said the funding will accelerate the factory’s construction, strengthening European security by addressing critical gaps in ammunition production. The new TNT factory highlights a shift towards reinforcing conventional defense industries alongside high-tech warfare solutions.
Pär Svärdson,founder of apotea and Adlibris,emphasized the necessity of a strong domestic defense industry to support Sweden’s overall security. He views the investment as both a contribution to national defense and a potentially sound financial decision.
“The investment will help us speed up further towards the final approvals, allowing us to have the shovel in the ground quickly,” Sjöblom said. “All enabling our mission to strengthen Europe’s defense resilience and ensure long-term security by addressing critical gaps in ammunition production.”
TNT, a powerful explosive used in artillery and bombs, is in high demand. Europe currently produces only about 6,000 tonnes of TNT each year, while russia’s estimated production capacity is around 50,000 tonnes. Swebal’s new plant aims to reduce this disparity.
What’s next
Swebal’s TNT factory still requires regulatory approvals from the Swedish goverment before construction can begin. Sjöblom believes the recent investment will expedite this process, paving the way for increased European TNT production and enhanced defense capabilities.