With the objective of increasing the artillery capabilities of the U.S. Army, BAE Systems has already begun work on the program for the manufacture of new titanium structures intended for the new M777 howitzers, collaborating with its supply chain both in the United States and the United Kingdom.
The initial work on these structures, which constitute the base of the barrel of the 155 mm artillery system, will be manufactured at BAE Systems’ new facilities for the development and production of artillery based in Sheffield, United Kingdom. The U.S. supplier network will also participate, with the first deliveries expected in 2026.
BAE Systems indicated that there is growing interest in the M777 howitzers in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The resumption of production represents an opportunity for both current operators and new users to take advantage of an active production line, with benefits associated with economies of scale.
In this regard, the Vice President and General Manager of BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK business, John Borton, in charge of the manufacture and assembly of the howitzers, stated: “This contract is an important milestone in the revitalization of M777 production at a critical time, when the howitzers are playing a key role in operations in Europe.”
He also added: “We are honored to support our NATO allies by providing them with the world’s only combat-proven lightweight 155 mm howitzer. We will continue to ensure that the M777 remains the king of artillery in the future through technical insertions, the development of long-range precision-guided ammunition, and flexible mobility options.”
With half the weight of other towed howitzers of its caliber, the M777 offers rapid deployment capability and decisive firepower in sustained combat conditions. Currently, more than 1,250 units are in service with land forces in the United States, Europe, Canada, Australia, and India. While its rate of fire is lower than platforms such as the German Panzerhaubitze 2000 or the French CAESAR, its performance has been valued for its accuracy and effectiveness in prolonged combat situations.
It is worth noting that BAE Systems had signed an agreement at the beginning of 2024 to restart the manufacture of titanium structures for the U.S. Army’s M777 howitzers. The agreement was formalized under an Indefinite Contractual Action for up to 50 million dollars, which allowed the program to begin while work progressed on the signing of the definitive contract.
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