The Global 155mm Ammunition Shortage

The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the pivotal role of artillery in modern warfare. Both sides have relied heavily on large-scale bombardment: 
- Ukraine fired 90,000 to 110,000 155mm rounds per month in the first year. 
- Russia, using 152mm artillery, fired 200,000 to 300,000 rounds monthly, with peaks of 500,000 rounds!
Nevertheless, the war between Israel and terror organization Hamas also demanded its needs.

This unprecedented consumption has pushed global ammunition supply chains to their limits. 

📊 Pre-War vs. Current Production Capacity: 
- U.S. production started at 14,000 rounds/month, now increased to 28,000, aiming for 80,000/month by 2025. 
- Global (non-U.S.) production was 10,000 rounds/month, now exceeding 25,000 rounds/month with key players expanding capacity. 

🛠 Key Global Manufacturers: 
- U.S.: General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, American Ordnance 
- South Korea: Poongsan 
- Germany: Rheinmetall 
- France: Nexter 
- Israel: Elbit Systems 
- Poland: PGZ 
- Turkey: ARCA Defense and Palladium Teknoloji
- I just read that Rheinmetall explores further 155m investment in Lithuania 

Defense industries worldwide are racing to meet demand through plant expansions, joint production initiatives, and advanced manufacturing - even like automation and 3D printing. 

However, the 💥 big question remains: 
Will this unprecedented level of 155mm production still be necessary in a few years? Armies around the world are currently replenishing stockpiles and rearming themselves, but at some point, we risk ending up with a surplus - a "white elephant". 

Perhaps the answer lies in adaptable manufacturing. Should we prioritize flexible production facilities capable of shifting between different calibers and munitions to prevent this potential oversupply? The future of global defense strategy may depend on this very approach.

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Picture source from Asia Pacific Defense Reporter