The US military is significantly increasing its production of artillery shells, nearly quadrupling output of the 155mm M795 projectile since 2022. This surge is largely a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has seen both Russian and Ukrainian forces engage in extensive artillery exchanges, highlighting the critical role of artillery in modern warfare.
The war has not only tested new military technologies but also underscored the vulnerabilities of traditional platforms such as tanks and surface ships. In this context, the demand for artillery munitions has surged, with both sides expending ordnance at a rate that has outpaced production capabilities. As a result, the United States has depleted significant portions of its stockpiles, prompting a response to meet both domestic and allied needs.
To address this issue, the US Army has ramped up production at various facilities across the country. The Iowa Army Ammunition Plant, located in Des Moines County, is a key site for the production of the 155mm rounds used by the M777 howitzer. Additionally, General Dynamics operates a facility in Mesquite, Texas, focusing on the manufacturing of shell casings, while the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania also contributes to the production of these vital munitions.
New Production Facilities to Enhance Output
The Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois recently announced that it has nearly quadrupled its monthly production of the 155mm M795 projectile artillery. This increase aims to improve military readiness and respond to global demands, while also incorporating lessons learned from current conflicts.
In April 2023, the Munitions Readiness Directorate at the Army Contracting Command awarded a $44.9 million contract to General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems to develop a new load, assemble, and pack plant in Camden, Arkansas. This facility will focus on the final stages of shell production, which includes filling the metal bodies of 155mm projectiles with explosives, assembling them, and preparing them for shipment.
Corey Schaefer, a contract specialist at the Munitions Readiness Directorate, stated, “This integrated master schedule shows all the main critical paths and how it all works.” The facility’s construction will ensure that production meets contractual deadlines while employing advanced automation and digital quality tracking systems.
Goals for Increased Artillery Supply
The new facility in Arkansas is set to produce upwards of 50,000 completed projectiles per month, contributing to the Army’s larger goal of reaching 100,000 shells monthly. This ambitious plan will utilize a skilled workforce alongside environmentally conscious processes to ensure timely delivery and efficient production.
As the US military prepares for future demands, the updated production capabilities aim to replenish stockpiles of essential ordnance. This strategic move not only addresses immediate military needs but also reinforces the US commitment to its allies, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe.
Overall, the increase in artillery shell production reflects a significant shift in military strategy as the US adapts to the realities of modern warfare. With both production facilities and workforce innovations, the military is positioning itself to respond effectively to current and future conflicts. The emphasis on artillery demonstrates its enduring importance on the battlefield, ensuring that the US remains prepared to meet the challenges of an evolving global landscape.
