UK set to increase production of explosives, reports The Times
The UK is planning to significantly increase its explosives production in response to growing concerns about the reliability of American military support, as reported by The Times on Sunday. The report indicates that shipping containers will...
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The UK is planning to significantly increase its explosives production in response to growing concerns about the reliability of American military support, as reported by The Times on Sunday.
The report indicates that shipping containers will be utilized throughout the UK for the production of RDX, an important explosive used in 155mm artillery rounds and other British military equipment.
BAE Systems, the sole producer of these rounds in Britain, intends to establish three new facilities to enhance resilience in its manufacturing process, as stated by Steve Cardew, business development director at BAE’s Maritime and Land Defence Solutions.
“One large facility is clearly a big security threat. If you have dispersed facilities, it is much more secure,” Cardew explained to the publication.
Historically, RDX has been manufactured in large, inefficient plants. Cardew noted that the new container-based model would allow for faster, cheaper, and more efficient production, with each unit able to produce up to 100 tonnes per year.
He emphasized that this increase in production is crucial “to effectively match Russia and other hostile nations,” and mentioned that escalating global demand has “forced” BAE to expedite its manufacturing processes.
The piece also highlighted that the UK has supplied a substantial portion of its 155mm ammunition to Ukraine as part of its extensive military assistance program.
Furthermore, it referenced former US President Donald Trump’s erratic foreign policy, including tariffs and a temporary freeze on military and intelligence aid to Kyiv, which have contributed to the UK and EU’s growing hesitance to depend on American armaments.
Tensions have been rising between Washington and European NATO allies due to Trump’s advocacy for a rapid resolution to the Ukraine conflict and his intentions to shift more security responsibilities to Europe once a ceasefire occurs. He has repeatedly urged European NATO members to invest more in their military capabilities, claiming that the US carries too much of the burden.
Currently, 155mm rounds produced with explosives sourced from the US are subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which limit their usage and resale without US approval.
Cardew mentioned that BAE, which has previously relied on importing RDX from the US and France, will soon be able to offer its own “Itar-free” products on global markets once local production increases.
The company anticipates a 16-fold surge in 155mm rounds with the opening of its new facility in south Wales this summer.
NATO nations are currently outlining plans to boost their military spending, arguing that such funding is crucial in anticipation of a potential Russian offensive. Moscow, however, has consistently denied any aggressive intentions, with President Vladimir Putin labeling the speculation as “complete nonsense.”
The Kremlin has also criticized Western arms supply to Ukraine, contending that it merely prolongs conflicts and undermines efforts for peace negotiations.
Rohan Mehta for TROIB News
The report indicates that shipping containers will be utilized throughout the UK for the production of RDX, an important explosive used in 155mm artillery rounds and other British military equipment.
BAE Systems, the sole producer of these rounds in Britain, intends to establish three new facilities to enhance resilience in its manufacturing process, as stated by Steve Cardew, business development director at BAE’s Maritime and Land Defence Solutions.
“One large facility is clearly a big security threat. If you have dispersed facilities, it is much more secure,” Cardew explained to the publication.
Historically, RDX has been manufactured in large, inefficient plants. Cardew noted that the new container-based model would allow for faster, cheaper, and more efficient production, with each unit able to produce up to 100 tonnes per year.
He emphasized that this increase in production is crucial “to effectively match Russia and other hostile nations,” and mentioned that escalating global demand has “forced” BAE to expedite its manufacturing processes.
The piece also highlighted that the UK has supplied a substantial portion of its 155mm ammunition to Ukraine as part of its extensive military assistance program.
Furthermore, it referenced former US President Donald Trump’s erratic foreign policy, including tariffs and a temporary freeze on military and intelligence aid to Kyiv, which have contributed to the UK and EU’s growing hesitance to depend on American armaments.
Tensions have been rising between Washington and European NATO allies due to Trump’s advocacy for a rapid resolution to the Ukraine conflict and his intentions to shift more security responsibilities to Europe once a ceasefire occurs. He has repeatedly urged European NATO members to invest more in their military capabilities, claiming that the US carries too much of the burden.
Currently, 155mm rounds produced with explosives sourced from the US are subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which limit their usage and resale without US approval.
Cardew mentioned that BAE, which has previously relied on importing RDX from the US and France, will soon be able to offer its own “Itar-free” products on global markets once local production increases.
The company anticipates a 16-fold surge in 155mm rounds with the opening of its new facility in south Wales this summer.
NATO nations are currently outlining plans to boost their military spending, arguing that such funding is crucial in anticipation of a potential Russian offensive. Moscow, however, has consistently denied any aggressive intentions, with President Vladimir Putin labeling the speculation as “complete nonsense.”
The Kremlin has also criticized Western arms supply to Ukraine, contending that it merely prolongs conflicts and undermines efforts for peace negotiations.
Rohan Mehta for TROIB News
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