Europe’s TNT Shortage: Joakim Sjöblom’s Bold Factory Solution
Discover how Joakim Sjöblom’s Sweden Ballistics AB aims to end Europe’s TNT dependence by building a cutting-edge factory, boosting local supply chains, and reshaping defense readiness by 2028.
Key Takeaways
- Europe relies on a single TNT factory in Poland, creating supply risks.
- Joakim Sjöblom’s Swebal plans a Swedish TNT plant producing 4,500 tons annually by 2028.
- Local sourcing from Sweden and the Baltic Sea strengthens supply chain resilience.
- TNT production is costly and hazardous, requiring strict environmental and safety controls.
- Europe’s TNT output still falls short of Russia’s massive production capacity.
Europe’s defense backbone is quietly strained by a surprising bottleneck: TNT production. With only one factory in Poland making NATO-standard TNT, the continent leans heavily on imports from Asia, exposing a fragile supply chain. Enter Joakim Sjöblom, a fintech entrepreneur turned defense pioneer, who founded Sweden Ballistics AB (Swebal) to build a new TNT factory in Sweden. His vision is clear—boost Europe’s local production, reduce import risks, and support NATO’s urgent ammunition needs. This article unpacks the TNT shortage, Sjöblom’s ambitious project, and what it means for Europe’s defense future.
Facing Europe’s TNT Bottleneck
Imagine Europe’s defense relying on just one factory for a critical explosive—TNT. That’s the reality today, with Poland’s Nitro-Chem standing as the continent’s lone producer of NATO-standard TNT. The rest? Imported mainly from India and China. This setup is like balancing on a single tightrope; any disruption could send shockwaves through Europe’s military readiness. The war in Ukraine has only sharpened this vulnerability, as NATO scrambles to ramp up artillery shell production. Russia’s staggering output—four times that of the entire Western alliance—casts a long shadow. Europe’s roughly 6,000 tonnes annual TNT production pales in comparison to Russia’s estimated 50,000 tonnes. The stakes are clear: without more factories, Europe risks being caught flat-footed in a crisis.
Joakim Sjöblom’s Swedish Vision
Joakim Sjöblom’s journey from fintech entrepreneur to defense innovator reads like a plot twist. After selling his company to Mastercard in 2024, he founded Sweden Ballistics AB (Swebal) to tackle Europe’s TNT shortage head-on. His motivation? A personal one—his newborn daughter’s future in a conflict-free Europe. Swebal’s plan is ambitious: build a semi-automated TNT factory near Nora, Sweden, producing 4,500 tonnes annually by 2028. The factory will source 100% of raw materials locally, from Sweden and the Baltic Sea region, cutting reliance on distant suppliers. This approach not only strengthens supply chains but also keeps economic benefits close to home. Sjöblom’s team, though small now, aims to grow to 50 full-time employees, signaling a serious commitment to reshaping Europe’s defense landscape.
Navigating Production Challenges
Making TNT isn’t your average factory job. The process involves mixing toluene with corrosive acids, generating toxic fumes and heat that can trigger accidental detonations. That’s why Europe’s TNT production is more expensive and heavily regulated compared to Asia’s. Swebal has spent two years conducting 14 environmental studies to secure permits, ensuring the factory won’t harm protected species or historical sites. The planned facility will be surrounded by thick earthen walls and a forest buffer to mitigate explosion risks and noise. Automation is key—only two rooms will have regular human presence, minimizing danger. Waste management is equally critical; toxic redwater byproducts will be trucked off-site for safe incineration, avoiding on-site destruction. These hurdles make the project risky but necessary for Europe’s defense sovereignty.
Europe’s Broader TNT Revival
Swebal’s factory is part of a wider European push to reclaim TNT production. Finland announced a new plant slated for 2028, while a Czech-Greek joint venture is restarting TNT manufacturing near Athens. Across the Atlantic, the US Army is building a TNT plant in Kentucky, reflecting a shared Western urgency. The European Union’s 2030 goal to source 60% of defense procurement internally adds political weight to these efforts. Yet, even combined, these projects won’t match Russia’s massive output. This reality underscores a long road ahead for Europe’s defense industry, one that demands investment, innovation, and patience. Still, the momentum signals a strategic shift from offshoring to homegrown resilience.
Balancing Community and Security
Building a TNT factory near serene forests and summer homes isn’t without controversy. Locals near Nora express concerns about increased truck traffic, tree removal, and wildlife disruption. Swebal’s cofounder, Carl Duforce, has engaged with residents since February, aiming to build trust. The factory’s remote location—700 meters to one kilometer from the nearest house—helps ease safety worries. The company also sponsors local sports clubs, signaling a commitment to community integration. Joakim Sjöblom’s candid reflection captures the tension: “If a war happens, maybe there will be no more trees or squirrels.” It’s a stark reminder that sometimes, safeguarding peace requires tough choices close to home.
Long Story Short
Joakim Sjöblom’s bold move to build a TNT factory in Sweden is more than a business venture—it’s a strategic lifeline for Europe’s defense autonomy. By sourcing raw materials locally and embracing automation, Swebal aims to deliver reliable TNT supply amid rising geopolitical tensions. Yet, the path is steep, with costly regulations and community concerns to navigate. Still, the urgency is undeniable: Europe’s current TNT capacity barely scratches the surface compared to Russia’s output. As Swebal and other European projects gain momentum, the continent takes a vital step toward securing its military future. For investors and policymakers alike, this story is a reminder that resilience often starts with daring to rebuild what was once taken for granted.