BAE Systems has secured a $162 million contract from the U.S. Army for the procurement of M777 lightweight howitzer major structures.
Finalized Contract Paves Way for Titanium Structures Production
The defense contractor said Tuesday that it has already initiated work on the project after being awarded an Undefinitized Contract Action in December 2023. The program details have since been finalized, enabling the company to resume production under the new agreement.
The initial work covers the production of titanium structures that form the core components of the weapon. BAE Systems is collaborating with its U.S. and U.K. supply chains for this critical component of the project.
Under the contract restart, the company will manufacture the first major structures at its artillery development and production facility in Sheffield, U.K., and in the U.S., with delivery expected in 2026.
Global Interest in M777 Howitzers
The company has observed significant interest in the M777 howitzers in other countries, particularly in Asia, Europe and the Americas. Currently, there are over 1,250 M777 howitzers deployed in the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia and India. The new contract provides current and potential clients an opportunity to leverage an active production line and maximize the cost efficiencies of large-scale manufacturing.
John Borton, vice president and general manager of weapons systems at BAE Systems. “We are honored to support our NATO allies by providing them with the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world.”
