The US Army is ramping up its ammunition procurement efforts, investing close to $640 million for 155mm High Explosive rounds as part of its ongoing Special Ammunition and Weapons Systems (SAWS) program. The cornerstone contract, granted to Global Military Products, stands as a key acquisition and will remain in effect until July 2027, marking a milestone in the Army’s yearly munitions buy.
SAWS targets the acquisition of ammunition and weapons that fall outside standard military safety testing and classification processes. Such “non-standard” munitions are typically older designs with origins in the Soviet Union and Eastern Bloc, still in active deployment by American allies. The program ensures these partners can continue using their established platforms, facilitating operational interoperability and maintaining safety standards.
Meeting surging artillery needs, the Army has dramatically increased production rates. Spokesperson Steve Warren reported capacity now sits at 40,000 rounds monthly—more than double the rate seen three years ago—with plans to expand output to 100,000 rounds each month by mid-2026. This surge addresses greater demand across multiple theaters and reinforces reliability of supply lines.
August also witnessed the awarding of a major contract to MSM Group North America for construction of the Future Artillery Complex, a pivotal step in the nation’s ammunition modernization strategy. The state-of-the-art facility will drive forward the Department of Defense’s push to renew its aging manufacturing base, enhancing the Army’s ability to produce and stockpile 155mm artillery rounds efficiently for years ahead.
