Venezuela Begins Making Russian Ammo: Why This Factory Matters

Venezuela has opened the first Kalashnikov ammunition factory in the Americas, in Maracay, close to Caracas.

According to Russia’s state company Rostec, the plant can make up to 70 million cartridges a year for the AK-103 assault rifle, which uses the 7.62x39mm caliber.

Four production lines are running: two for regular bullets with steel cores, and two for tracer and blank rounds. The site also has a firing range and storage facilities.

This factory is the result of a plan started almost 20 years ago by former President Hugo Chávez. The goal was to give Venezuela more control over its own weapons supply.

The project took years to finish because of technical problems, corruption scandals, and heavy sanctions from the United States and the European Union. Despite these hurdles, Russian companies Rosoboronexport and Rostec completed the plant in 2025.

The opening of the factory is part of a bigger deal between Venezuela and Russia. In May 2025, Presidents Nicolás Maduro and Vladimir Putin signed a new agreement to work together on defense, oil, and trade.

Venezuela Russia Ammo Deal Signals New Military Ties

Venezuela has already bought Russian fighter jets and helicopters. Now, with this factory, it can produce its own ammunition, which helps the military and police avoid shortages caused by sanctions or trade restrictions.

From a business point of view, the factory helps Venezuela save money and avoid risks tied to importing ammunition. For Russia, it opens a new market for its military technology and strengthens its position in Latin America.

The factory also shows a new trend: Russia is not just selling weapons, but helping other countries make them, too. This matters because it shows how countries under sanctions can find ways to keep their armies supplied.

It also highlights how Russia and Venezuela are working together to resist outside pressure and build stronger economic and military ties. For Venezuela, the factory is a step toward more independence and security. For Russia, it’s a way to expand its influence in the region.

In short, Venezuela’s new ammunition factory is a sign of changing alliances and a practical move to keep its armed forces supplied, even when facing tough international challenges.

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This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error · Editorial responsibility: Matthias Camenzind, Editor-in-Chief