- The invasion of Ukraine is driving defense spending and the development of advanced production techniques for howitzers.
- The Ukraine war is fueling a rearmament boom, leading to surging air defense demand and the launch of cheaper missile systems.
U.S. Army seeks new manufacturers for 155mm howitzer barrels
What happened
The U.S. Army is looking for new manufacturers to build barrels for 155mm howitzers because the government's only plant for manufacturing them cannot keep up with increased artillery demand. The Army issued a Sources Sought notice asking contractors to estimate capacity to make up to 10 barrels per month within three years.
From defensenews.com
Why it matters
The search for new suppliers addresses concerns at the PENTAGON that the current manufacturing capacity is insufficient to meet the surging defense demand driven by the Ukraine war. This effort aims to expand the production of howitzer ammunition to meet global demand.
The Ukraine war is fueling a rearmament boom, leading to surging air defense demand and the launch of cheaper missile systems.
From defensenews.com
Who's involved
- ArmyThe U.S. Army is seeking new suppliers for howitzer barrels.
- PENTAGONThe PENTAGON has expressed concerns over manufacturing capacity.
- WatervlietWatervliet is the current sole manufacturer of large-caliber barrels for howitzers and tanks.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- WatervlietSpeculative
Watervliet could see its sole-source status challenged as the U.S. Army seeks alternative manufacturers to meet demand.