The UK Ministry of Defense (MoD) has signed a deal with BAE Systems to ramp up munitions manufacturing. The order, initially worth £280 million ($361 million), could potentially rise to over £400 million. This comes following criticism for dwindling weapons stocks.
Key Points:
- The deal between the UK MoD and BAE Systems involves the production of 155mm artillery shells and other types of ammunition, increasing munitions manufacturing at BAE’s facilities in North England and South Wales.
- This move follows earlier criticism of the UK government for allowing Britain’s weapons stocks to diminish, with the Parliamentary Defense Committee recommending a rapid expansion of industrial capacity to rebuild stocks.
- BAE Systems is investing in expanding munition capabilities in the UK, including a new machining line for 155mm shells, a new explosives filling factory, and a 30mm manufacturing capability restart.
- While no specific mention was made of the increase in production supplying 155mm shells to Ukraine, the UK has previously provided ammunition and self-propelled guns to Kyiv.
- The munitions are being supplied under a 15-year, £2.4 billion agreement between BAE and the MoD, known as the Next Generation Munitions Solution, replacing an earlier long-term munitions supply deal.
