BAE Systems to resume production of M777 howitzer.

BAE Systems is gearing up to resume the production of components for the M777 howitzer, a move driven by a surge in demand for this artillery piece after its remarkable performance in the Ukraine conflict, according to Sylvie Pfeifer's report in the Financial Times. BAE Systems has inked an initial $50 million agreement with the US Army to kickstart a fresh program while they finalize the specifics of a more extensive contract.
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M777A2 howitzer firing at Fort Hood, July 29, 2020 (Picture source: U.S. Army)

The M777, weighing in at 4,200 kg (9,300 lb), is 41% lighter than its predecessor, the 7,154 kg (15,772 lb) M198 howitzer, thanks in large part to the extensive use of titanium. Its gun barrel doubles as a towing bar, with the connecting ring forged as an extension of the muzzle brake. The M777 can be transported via helicopter sling-load, transport aircraft such as the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, or towed by air-braked vehicles weighing over 2.5 tonnes (5,500 lb). The minimum required gun crew has been reduced from nine to five, with a normal crew size of eight. However, the rate of fire decreases with a minimal emergency crew. The M777A1 and M777A2 utilize a digital fire-control system similar to that found on self-propelled howitzers like the M109A6 Paladin, which enables quick deployment through navigation, pointing, and self-location capabilities.

BAE noted a substantial increase in global interest in this weapon from countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas since the start of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022. The US, Canada, and Australia have all provided M777s to Ukraine, where they have proven highly effective against Russian invasion forces. Currently, over 1,250 M777 howitzers are in service with ground forces in Australia, Canada, Colombia, India, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and the United States, with its first combat use in the War in Afghanistan.

BAE anticipates that the new contract and the revitalized production line for components will lead to orders for complete M777 howitzers. While the primary manufacturing takes place in the UK, the assembly often occurs in the US, Sylvie Pfeire mentions. The company intends to collaborate with suppliers in both the UK and the US to manufacture the essential M777 titanium structures forming the core of the weapon, with the first parts expected to be delivered in 2025. This contract "creates the ideal conditions for the resumption of M777 production in the UK and offers an opportunity for new and existing users to participate in a new M777 production initiative, benefiting from a well-established production line and economies of scale," stated the company on January 4.

Defense News January 2024