Firehawk Aerospace has secured a $24 million Pentagon contract to increase domestic manufacturing capacity for propellant used by the M1128 155mm base-bleed projectile.The 22-month project will expand annual production to roughly 740,000 pounds initially. Firehawk’s Oklahoma facility is expected to eventually reach a production capacity of approximately 3.1 million pounds once it becomes fully operational.Propellant provides the energy needed to launch artillery projectiles. It burns rapidly inside the weapon’s chamber and generates the high-pressure gases that accelerate the round through the barrel.The M1128 incorporates a base-bleed unit that releases gas from the rear of the projectile after launch. By reducing the drag created behind the projectile, the technology helps increase effective range.General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems developed the M1128 as an extended-range 155mm high-explosive projectile. It is compatible with artillery systems including the M777A2 and M109A7.The award comes under the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment initiative, through which the Defense Department is investing in domestic production and reducing potential supply-chain weaknesses. The broader effort targets critical materials, workforce development, kinetic weapons, microelectronics, castings and forgings, and battery production.
