The UK plans to significantly increase its arms production as it no longer relies on imports from the US and France.
This is when British and European defense companies are moving away from purchasing US weapons and equipment due to concerns over President Donald Trump’s unreliable military partner.
First reported The eraBAE Systems, a British defense company, is developing new ways to create sufficient explosives and propellants in the UK to meet the requirements of the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Exports.
One way the company, the largest defense contractor in Europe, does this is by creating sites across the UK to produce RDX explosives used in 155mm rounds of British Army guns and weapons. They also want to build three new sites to “support resilience and ramp up critical ammunition production.”
According to Secretary of Defense John Healy, the defense industry is “the foundation of the ability to fight and win on the battlefield.”
He said: “Strengthening the production of homemade artillery is an important step to learn lessons from Ukraine, increase industry resilience and make defense an engine for growth.”
BAE Systems said it has developed new methods for creating new weapons and described them as “innovative” methods to meet demand, eliminating the need for nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin, which is in high demand across the global supply chain.
Previously, the company imported RDX explosives from two major sources: the US and France. But it wants to be where that ammunition is considered “itar-free.” Restrictions from the US.
“We are pleased to announce that we are working hard to ensure that we are working hard to achieve this,” said Steve Cardew, Director of Business Development for Maritime and Land Defense Solutions at BAE Systems.
“It also supports economic growth through highly skilled jobs and potential export opportunities.”
