The US Army has contracted BAE Systems to produce M777 major lightweight howitzer structures for $162 million.
BAE has already begun work with its US and UK supply chains to produce the gun’s titanium structure, which forms the basis of the weapon.
Initial work began after an indefinite contract was awarded in December 2023.
The first major structures will be produced at BAE’s new artillery development and production facility in Sheffield, UK, as well as within the US supply chain.
Delivery will commence in 2026.
“This contract is a major milestone in revitalising M777 production at a critical time, where the howitzers are playing a key role in operations in Europe,” VP of BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK business John Borton said.
“We are honoured to support our NATO allies by providing them with the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world.
We will continue to ensure the M777 remains king of artillery well into the future using technical insertions, long-range precision guided munition developments, and flexible mobility options.”
Increased Demand
The manufacturer saw revived interest in the towed gun following its exploits in the Ukraine war.
Around 200 M777s were delivered to Ukraine by countries such as the US, Australia, and Canada.
Weighing only around 4 tons — less than half of existing 155 mm towed guns — the compact M777 can be rapidly towed by tactical vehicles, carried by helicopter sling-load, or transport aircraft such as the Lockheed C-130 Hercules or C-5 Galaxy.
The cannon supports a range of guided and unguided shells, including the Raytheon-BAE-developed Excalibur, and is considered easier to use.
The gun was inducted by the US military in 2005, and an estimated 1,000 have been procured by the US Army and the US Marine Corps.
Additional operators include the ground forces of Canada, Australia, India, and Ukraine.
