The Ukrainian military has recalled approximately 100,000 120mm mortar rounds after reports of widespread malfunctions, affecting at least seven frontline brigades. The Ministry of Defense announced the recall on Tuesday, citing defective propellant charges and possible storage issues as reasons for the failures.
Soldiers first raised concerns in early November, reporting that the rounds often failed to detonate, became lodged in mortar tubes, or fell short of their targets. In some cases, faulty propellant caused rounds to explode dangerously close to firing positions. Reports indicate the defective ammunition was produced by the state-owned manufacturer Ukroboronprom.
The Ministry of Defense has halted the use of the faulty rounds and is investigating the cause of the failures. Officials said the defects might be due to low-quality manufacturing or improper storage, which allowed damp conditions to compromise the propellant.
The State Bureau of Investigation has opened criminal proceedings to identify potential negligence in the production and distribution of the ammunition. The Defense Ministry has also pledged to improve quality control and hold responsible parties accountable.
The recalled rounds could have supported six months of operations, according to local reports. Mortar shells like the 120mm caliber are critical to Ukraine’s defense against Russian infantry advances, making their reliability essential for frontline troops.
Officials have reassured that imported replacements will mitigate disruptions and maintain operational capabilities.
