A new BAE Systems artillery manufacturing facility has opened in Sheffield, creating 200 skilled jobs and supporting over 60 businesses across the UK supply chain. The 94,000 sq ft site will serve as the UK hub for production of the M777, a 155mm lightweight howitzer with proven combat performance.
The factory was made possible through export contracts exceeding £25 million, underlining the UK defence sector’s export competitiveness and manufacturing capabilities. It will also offer apprenticeship opportunities, reinforcing the region’s advanced engineering talent pipeline.
The launch follows the Government’s Strategic Defence Review, which includes a £6 billion commitment to munitions production this parliament. This funding encompasses an ‘always on’ munitions pipeline and at least six new energetics and munitions sites.
The Sheffield facility is expected to be fully operational later this year, initially focused on M777 production with plans to diversify into other advanced combat systems. The plant plays a key role in fulfilling the UK’s defence commitments abroad, including recent contracts to supply artillery barrels to Ukraine in collaboration with Sheffield Forgemasters.
The site represents a strategic investment in sovereign defence capability and industrial growth, aligned with the Government’s Plan for Change.
