By John Q. Hosedrinker Britain increases artillery shell production ‘eight-fold’
As tensions continue to rise in Eastern Europe, it comes as no surprise that Britain has decided to increase its artillery shell production. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) placed an order with BAE Systems to provide an eight-fold increase in production capability of 155mm shells. However, it’s important to note that this increase has not yet been implemented, as the BAE explosives filling facility won’t be online until 2026.
While some may have expected this increase in production to have already taken place, it’s crucial to understand the complexities involved in increasing production capacity. Building new production lines and ensuring demand for years to come requires time and investment. The fact that this order has been placed shows that Britain recognizes the need to be proactive in terms of military preparedness.
The question then arises, why is it necessary for such a significant increase in production? Well, according to Defence Analysis, there is ongoing debate within the Ministry of Defence regarding ammunition stock levels. This debate is essential to determine the appropriate number of ammunition stocks needed. Given that it has been a year since the invasion of Ukraine, it is slightly surprising that these discussions are still ongoing.
Defence Analysis provides some estimates that shed light on the potential requirement for artillery ammunition. For instance, it suggests that the base British Army requirement for 155mm ammunition is 430,000 rounds. At an average cost of $3000 per round, this would amount to approximately £1.1 billion. However, it’s worth considering whether there will be “only” two regiments of tube artillery or if there might be three or even four. In that case, the cost could rise to £1.5 billion or £2.25 billion for the basic war stock of 155mm ammo.
It’s important to note that this increase in artillery shell production is not exclusive to Britain. The need for more significant stockpiles and increased production capacity is a concern for many countries. The United States Air Force, for example, is even asking retired personnel to return to duty, further underscoring the need for additional resources.
NATO itself is also realizing the importance of standardizing its 155mm shells and artillery breaches to ensure seamless interoperability among member nations. This move would enable all countries to produce rounds that can be used by any weapon, facilitating logistical support during joint military operations.
While it’s disheartening to see that war seems to be on the horizon, it is better to be safe than sorry. The increase in artillery shell production is a proactive step towards preparedness. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the focus is not just on stockpiling ammunition but also on exploring diplomatic solutions to alleviate tensions.
In conclusion, Britain’s decision to increase artillery shell production eight-fold is a significant move towards enhancing military readiness. While the increase has not yet been implemented, it demonstrates the understanding of the need to be proactive in the face of potential conflicts. However, it is equally important to emphasize the importance of diplomatic efforts to prevent war and maintain peace. The path forward should involve a balance between military preparedness and exploring diplomatic resolutions.