Revitalization of the former Autotractor Plant – Minister Vengu: We will produce vehicles and equipment for the Armed Forces, emergency services, and Police

Published: Sunday, 27 April 2025 12:54

 

The former Autotractor Plant in Shkozë is set to be transformed into a major production center for military uniforms and the assembly of armored vehicles. The project was presented in the presence of Prime Minister Edi Rama, Defence Minister Pirro Vengu, and Interior Minister Ervin Hoxha.

In his remarks, Defence Minister Vengu explained that this project is part of a broader national development chain, alongside other key sites:

Rubik, where artillery systems and military drones will be assembled;

Vlora, home to the aviation school and the naval shipyard;

Gramsh and Poliçan, specializing in weapons and ammunition production;

Mjekës, focused on specialized munitions.

“Here at this facility,” - Minister Vengu said, “We will produce armored vehicles, including emergency response vehicles and ambulances for medical emergencies. In a second building, we will manufacture personal equipment and uniforms needed for all types of forces.”

He added that the Ministry is in intensive negotiations with TIMAK, an international company, to set up a partnership under Albania’s new military industry law.

“Our aim is to meet the internal needs of the Armed Forces, civil emergency services, medical emergencies, and the State Police. From now on, whenever the Albanian state invests in equipment and industry, we will prioritize producing it here at home.”  - Vengu emphasized.

According to him, these projects will have a major positive impact on Albania’s economy by creating jobs and stimulating local communities where these factories are based.

Prime Minister Edi Rama firmly dismissed rumors suggesting the site would pose any risk, calling them "nonsense".

“We are talking about infrastructure like this one in Shkozë, or the industrial complex in Rubik, and others across Albania. Our goal is to build a full domestic production system to meet the needs of our Armed Forces, Police, Fire Services — and even for export.” Rama said.

In addition to manufacturing military uniforms, the Shkozë facility will also handle the dismantling of armored vehicles, including specialized military vehicles, troop carriers, artillery transporters, fire trucks, and ambulances. The operation will be managed by KAYO sh.a., a state-owned company under the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with leading international firms and two local entrepreneurs.

Beyond the clear benefits for national security and the economy, the revitalization of this 45,000-square-meter site will create a new hub for Albania’s growing military industry, right in the city of Tirana. The new production center is expected to create more than 200 new jobs for residents in the Shkozë area.