BAE Systems has secured a 130-million pound ($162 million) contract to deliver additional frontline battlefield munitions for the British Army as part of a 15-year program signed in 2020.
Articles include 30-millimeter medium-caliber rounds, 5.56-millimeter ammunition, and 155-millimeter artillery shells.
The new order follows an initial contract signed in July 2023, increasing the agreement’s value to 410 million pounds ($511 million).
Strategic Partnership
The 15-year supply, worth 2.4-billion pounds ($2.99 billion), was launched to secure munitions and associated engineering support for the British Army.
It addresses the service’s growing demands in small arms ammunition while enhancing its heavy-firing capabilities and latest weapon systems.
The project will create over 200 roles across New England and South Wales, further boosting BAE’s existing 1,200 munitions workforce in the UK.
Currently, the firm is building new facilities to meet the program’s goals. It includes an explosives filling factory in Glascoed, a 155-millimeter machining line in Washington, and a 30-millimeter medium-caliber manufacturing capability for both sites.
“This contract builds on our extensive relationship with the UK MOD as a strategic partner for munitions supply,” BAE Systems Munitions Managing Director Glynn Plant stated.
“Our teams are increasing production rates, investing in people and new facilities and maximising shift patterns to meet the enhanced demand whilst ensuring every shell meets our exceptionally high standards.”
Replenishing Ukraine Ammo Donations
Alongside increasing the armed forces’ stockpile, the UK Ministry of Defence said that the program serves as a response to the growing tension in Eastern Europe.
Part of the orders will replenish ammunition depleted by the weapon systems the country is sending to Ukraine in defense against Moscow’s aggression.
“As the UK continues to back Ukraine’s resistance of Russia’s illegal invasion, it’s vital we ramp up our sovereign munitions production,” UK Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge explained.
“This contract will further bolster ammunition stockpiles, whilst supporting our defence industry and backing hundreds of highly-skilled UK jobs.”