By John Q. Hosedrinker Russia producing three times more artillery shells than the US and Europe for Ukraine is a stark reminder of the intense focus and dedication that Russia has towards supporting their military efforts. This production surge showcases a wartime economy in action, where priorities are clearly set, and resources are allocated accordingly. The emphasis on artillery as the backbone of their military strategy highlights a strategic difference in approach compared to the reliance on airpower seen in the US and Europe.
While the US and Europe may have the industrial capacity to close the production gap, the key question is whether there exists the political will to do so. The need for a concerted effort and commitment from Western leaders is crucial in ensuring that support for Ukraine is adequate and timely. The divided nature of leadership in the US and Europe poses challenges in ramping up production to match the output of Russia.
It is important to note that the comparison between 155mm produced in the US and EU with all calibres produced in Russia may not provide a complete picture. Ukraine utilizes Soviet calibres such as 152mm, 122mm, and 130mm, for which Bulgaria and other Eastern European countries are significant producers. The geographical restrictions do not hinder Western countries from accessing other sources, as seen with contracts with Pakistan, Egypt, and South Africa, among others.
As the production capacity expands in the coming years, Western militaries are replenishing and expanding their own stocks, consuming much of the increased capacity. The outlook for 2025 appears more promising as Russia may face challenges with feedstock vehicles and artillery pieces for refurbishment. The procurement of artillery ammo from non-NATO/EU sources and the potential approval of military aid packages by the US Congress for Ukraine paint a more hopeful picture of narrowing the production gap.
However, the disparity in production levels underlines the advantage that an autocratic country at war holds over democratic nations that are not actively engaged in conflict. Russia’s ability to direct companies and resources towards wartime needs without electoral constraints gives them a formidable edge. The allocation of almost 100% of military spending towards the war effort highlights the single-minded determination driving Russia’s actions.
It is crucial for the US and Europe to recognize the gravity of the situation and the need for a unified and committed approach towards supporting Ukraine. The potential consequences of the conflict ending in various ways underscore the importance of taking decisive action. The production of artillery shells for Ukraine by Russia, despite being at war with them, reflects a complex web of geopolitical dynamics and strategic priorities that demand attention and thoughtful responses from the West. The recent revelation that Russia is producing three times more artillery shells than the US and Europe for Ukraine has sparked discussions about the underlying motivations and strategic implications of this stark contrast in production levels. The situation sheds light on the wartime economy that Russia has mobilized, showcasing a clear dedication to supporting their military endeavors. This surge in production underscores the critical role that artillery plays in their military strategy, marking a significant departure from the airpower-centric approaches adopted by the US and Europe.
While the US and Europe may possess the industrial capacity to bridge the production gap, the real challenge lies in the political will needed to allocate resources effectively. The divided leadership within Western nations poses obstacles to scaling up production to match Russia’s output, highlighting the need for a unified and committed approach to supporting Ukraine. The comparison between 155mm produced in the US and EU with the various calibres produced in Russia may not offer a comprehensive view, considering Ukraine’s utilization of Soviet calibres and the potential for alternative sources outside NATO/EU.
The forthcoming expansion in production capacity signals a more optimistic outlook for 2025, as Russia may grapple with limitations in feedstock vehicles and artillery refurbishments. The procurement of artillery ammo from non-traditional sources and the proposed military aid packages for Ukraine present hopeful signs of narrowing the production gap. However, the disparity in production levels underscores the challenges faced by democratic nations in matching the efficiency and focus of autocratic countries at war.
Russia’s ability to direct resources towards wartime needs without electoral constraints provides them with a significant advantage in terms of production output, reflecting a single-minded determination to achieve their military goals. The urgency for the US and Europe to recognize the gravity of the situation and adopt a unified stance in supporting Ukraine is paramount. The potential outcomes of the conflict ending in various ways emphasize the need for decisive action and thoughtful responses from Western nations.
The production of artillery shells for Ukraine by Russia, despite the ongoing conflict between the two nations, underscores complex geopolitical dynamics and strategic priorities that demand a nuanced and proactive approach from the US and Europe. As we navigate the challenges posed by this production gap, it is essential for Western leaders to prioritize unity, commitment, and strategic planning to effectively support Ukraine and address the broader implications of Russia’s intensified wartime economy.