Since 1985, i.e. for 40 years, our VOP Nováky plant has been producing practice ammunition, which is an essential part of the training and safe practice of artillerymen. Využíva sa nielen na dôležitú prípravu ozbrojených síl, ale aj pri veľkolepých príležitostiach, kde nesmú chýbať slávnostné salvy.
Practice ammunition is primarily used for reloading and firing practice and perfectly replicates the use of live ammunition. Its advantage is that training is safe, with no risk of injury, damage or wear to the weapon. It can be used for tactical training, demonstration firing and in areas where live or reserve ammunition cannot be used.
The use of practice ammunition to train howitzer gun operators significantly reduces the cost of both the training itself and transportation to the ranges. “We at VOP Nováky are proud to contribute to the education and training of military professionals,” said Zuzana Helbichová, General Director of VOP Nováky.
Festive salvos
The sound and visual effects of practice ammunition are indistinguishable from live ammunition, which is why it is used on spectacular occasions. One such event is the New Year’s salute on the banks of the Danube in Bratislava. It has been held every 1 January since 1994 on the occasion of the Day of the Slovak Republic, and we have been part of this tradition from the very beginning. The artillerymen fire our 122 mm practice ammunition. We also have 155 mm, 152 mm and 125 mm calibres in our training ammunition portfolio.
Precision manufacturing
The first drawing documentation of practice ammunition produced in VOP Nováky dates back to 1985. The production process is precise and technically demanding. It begins with the preparation of the barite core, which is placed in a mould. The mould is then closed, leaving the top open for the polyurethane mixture to be poured in. Once the mould is filled, it is closed, the air is forced out through special holes and the polyurethane cures. Finally, the mould is opened and the finished product is subjected to a rigorous dimensional inspection. This process ensures that each piece of training ammunition meets the highest standards of quality and reliability, providing a safe and effective solution for both training and ceremonial occasions.
For more information about practice ammunition and products from VOP Nováky click here.
