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US Triples 155mm Cannon Production in Three Years Driven by Military Aid to Ukraine.
The Watervliet Arsenal, the sole producer of cannon tubes for the U.S. Army, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Over the past three years, its production rate has tripled, reaching levels not seen in four decades. This increase has been driven by a growing demand for artillery equipment, particularly as a result of U.S. military aid to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion. This industrial expansion highlights both the challenges and opportunities faced by a defense industrial base operating under significant strategic pressures.
The 155mm howitzers, which are central to modern artillery capabilities, have played a pivotal role in Ukrainian operations, demonstrating their strategic impact (Picture source: US DoD)
Located in Albany, New York, Watervliet Arsenal plays a critical role in producing cannon tubes for systems such as the M1 Abrams tank, the M109 Paladin self-propelled howitzer, and the M777 lightweight howitzer. The M777, extensively deployed on the battlefield in Ukraine, has demonstrated notable precision, reliability, and durability. According to Major General Michael Lalor, commander of the Tank-automotive and Armaments Command, the M777's cannon tubes have exceeded initial expectations, with a longer-than-anticipated service life despite a high rate of fire.
Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, the demand for artillery has surged, placing significant pressure on Watervliet Arsenal to increase output. In response, the U.S. Army has modernized manufacturing processes and optimized the facility’s production capacity. However, despite these enhancements, the arsenal remains the sole source of cannon tubes, exposing the defense industrial base to strategic risks. A prolonged conflict or disruption in the supply chain could severely impact the availability of essential artillery.
To address this critical dependency, the Army has taken steps to diversify its production sources. In 2023, it issued Requests for Information (RFIs) seeking companies capable of manufacturing M776 and M284 cannon tubes, which are used in the M777 and M109 systems, respectively. These RFIs extended to international suppliers, reflecting the Army’s openness to global solutions to strengthen its industrial resilience.
Several potential manufacturers have since been identified. According to General Lalor, with access to the necessary technical data, these companies could establish operational production lines within 12 to 18 months of contract award. However, he acknowledged the complexity of such production capabilities, which require specialized expertise and facilities.
Meanwhile, Watervliet Arsenal continues to expand its own capacity. Investments in infrastructure modernization and process improvements aim to meet both current and future demands. This dual approach—combining the growth of existing facilities with the development of alternative sources—provides a balanced strategy for ensuring stable and adaptable production.
The experience of the Ukraine conflict has underscored the importance of a robust and resilient defense industrial base to mitigate vulnerabilities in future conflicts. The 155mm howitzers, which are central to modern artillery capabilities, have played a pivotal role in Ukrainian operations, demonstrating their strategic impact. This underscores the need for sustained, efficient, and diversified production to meet the operational requirements of the U.S. armed forces.
Watervliet Arsenal represents both the legacy and the future of U.S. defense manufacturing. By tripling its output, modernizing its facilities, and exploring alternative solutions to reduce reliance on a single source, it addresses the evolving challenges of a rapidly changing global environment. Through technological modernization, source diversification, and a long-term commitment to readiness, the U.S. Army is poised to meet the strategic demands of today and tomorrow.