Photo credit: www.theguardian.com
Britain is poised to enhance its domestic weapons manufacturing capabilities significantly, aiming to reduce reliance on imports from nations like the United States and France.
This strategic decision emerges amidst a broader shift among British and European defense contractors, who are decreasing their dependence on American-made military equipment due to concerns about the reliability of the U.S. as a military ally, particularly under the leadership of former President Donald Trump.
According to a report by The Times, BAE Systems, a leading defense firm in the UK, is actively exploring innovative methods to produce essential explosives and propellants domestically, accommodating both Ministry of Defence obligations and export needs.
As part of this initiative, BAE Systems is establishing production sites throughout the UK to manufacture RDX explosives, crucial for 155mm artillery rounds used by the British Army. The company plans the construction of three additional facilities to enhance resilience and support the increased production of vital munitions.
Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the significance of the defense sector, stating it forms the core of the UK’s military capabilities. He noted, “Strengthening homegrown artillery production is a critical step in learning lessons from Ukraine, enhancing our industrial resilience, and positioning defense as a catalyst for economic growth.”
BAE Systems has touted its new production techniques as “innovative,” facilitating the alignment of domestic output with the rising demand while eliminating reliance on nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine, two materials currently under strain within global supply chains.
Historically, the company has sourced RDX explosives primarily from the United States and France. However, it is now striving to achieve an “Itar-free” status for its munitions, allowing for unrestricted international sales without U.S. limitations. This status would alleviate concerns surrounding dependency on foreign supply chains.
Steve Cardew, the Director of Business Development for BAE Systems’ maritime and land defense solutions, remarked on the significance of these advancements: “Our progress in synthetic energetics and propellant production will bolster the UK’s supply chain resilience and enable us to meet the growing demand for critical munitions in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.”
He added, “Additionally, this initiative supports economic development through the creation of high-skilled jobs and the potential for export opportunities.”
Source
www.theguardian.com