BAE Systems has secured a $162 million (£124 million) contract from the U.S. Army to produce major structures for the M777 lightweight howitzer. The contract, which follows an earlier Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) awarded in December 2023, marks the official start of the program and is part of ongoing efforts to support the M777's role in artillery systems worldwide.
The work will involve the production of titanium structures that are crucial to the M777's design. These structures will be fabricated both at BAE Systems’ advanced artillery facility in Sheffield, UK, and across its U.S. supply chain. The first structures are expected to be delivered in 2026.
This contract not only ensures continued support for the M777 but also offers opportunities for future users of the howitzer in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The production restart aims to leverage economies of scale and maintain a streamlined production line for the lightweight howitzer.
The M777, known for its reduced weight compared to other 155mm towed howitzers, remains a critical asset for rapid response in combat scenarios. With a proven track record, including over 1,250 units in service across multiple countries, the M777 is recognized as the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer currently in operation.