In a significant boost to its ammunition production capabilities, the US Army unveiled the Universal Artillery Projectile Lines (UAPL) facility in Mesquite, Texas, on Wednesday, May 29.
This state-of-the-art plant, managed by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, represents a critical step in modernizing the nation’s defense industrial base and ensuring the Army’s readiness for future threats.
“This plant is an important example of how we are modernizing our World War II-era organic industrial base,” said Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth in a statement. “The Army is spending more than a billion dollars every year to make these critical improvements.”
The UAPL boasts cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and processes, enabling high-volume production of various ammunition, ranging from 60mm to 155mm, with minimal adjustments.
This flexibility is crucial in meeting the Army’s ambitious goal of producing 100,000 artillery rounds per month by the end of 2025.
Addressing a Critical Need
The facility’s opening comes at a critical juncture, as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has highlighted the need for a robust and reliable domestic ammunition supply chain.
Prior to the war, the US monthly production capacity for 155mm shells was a mere 24,000.
The UAPL, with its advanced technology and automation, will significantly increase this capacity, ensuring the Army’s readiness and deterring potential adversaries.
Beyond Production: A Boost for the American Workforce
Beyond its immediate impact on production, the UAPL signifies a broader commitment to the American workforce.
The facility’s construction and operation will create hundreds of skilled jobs in the Mesquite area, contributing to the local economy and fostering a sense of national pride.
“We are building new production lines across the country, and we are expanding our contracts with existing production facilities to increase their production speed and capacity,” explained Wormuth. “And we couldn’t increase our production rates without the skilled expertise of the Americans who work in these arsenals and facilities around the country.
The UAPL is a testament to the Army’s commitment to investing in its future.
This new facility is not only a crucial step in modernizing the nation’s defense industrial base but also serves as a beacon of innovation and American manufacturing prowess.
With the UAPL operational, the Army is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century and maintain its position as a global leader in military readiness.
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