BAE Systems: BAE Systems awarded US Army M777 structures contract

BAE Systems has been awarded a contract by the US Army for M777 lightweight howitzer major structures, worth $162 million. Image courtesy BAE Systems BAE Systems has already begun work on the programme, working with its supply chain in the US and the UK to produce the titanium structures, which form the basis of the gun. The initial work started under an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA), awarded in December 2023, which has now been finalised. The first major structures will be produced at BAE Systems' new multimillion-pound artillery development and production facility in Sheffield, UK, as well as within the US supply chain and will commence delivery in 2026. BAE Systems has seen interest in the howitzers from across Europe, Asia and the Americas. The restart of M777 production presents a unique opportunity for new and existing users of the lightweight howitzer to benefit from a hot production line and economies of scale. "This contract is a major milestone in revitalising M777 production at a critical time, where the howitzers are playing a key role in operations in Europe," said John Borton, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK business, which manages the manufacture and assembly of the M777 lightweight howitzers. "We are honoured to support our NATO allies by providing them with the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world. We will continue to ensure the M777 remains king of artillery well into the future using technical insertions, long-range precision guided munition developments, and flexible mobility options." At half the weight of other 155mm towed howitzers, the M777 provides a rapid reaction capability and delivers decisive firepower in sustained combat conditions. With more than 1,250 M777s in service with ground forces in the United States, Europe, Canada, Australia and India, the M777 is the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world.