Delay at strategic facility: ammunition factory in Wales still not operational
The new complex in Glascodey, South Wales, was supposed to start operating last summer. It was expected to increase production of 155 mm NATO-standard artillery shells by 16 times compared to 2023 levels. This was to help replenish British Army stocks and increase supplies to Ukraine.
However, production has not yet started. BAE Systems confirmed the delay and explained it by a decision made in 2025 during construction to double the planned capacity of the plant. According to company representatives, the facility is structurally complete and is currently undergoing testing.
Before the modernisation, BAE produced about 3,000 to 5,000 155 mm shells per year. Even after a sixteen-fold increase, the annual volume may be approximately 80,000 units. For comparison, the German concern Rheinmetall has opened a new plant that will allow Germany to produce up to 1.1 million such shells annually by 2027.
Analysts emphasise that 155 mm ammunition is the basis for land operations of modern armies. Without adequate supplies, the ability to deploy troops in Eastern Europe or reinforce contingents, particularly in Estonia, will be limited. According to experts, even 64,000 shells would only be enough for about a month of active combat operations.
The delay comes amid broader defence planning issues. The defence investment plan, which was expected in the autumn, has been repeatedly postponed. Preliminary estimates suggest that there could be a £28 billion shortfall in funding for the British Armed Forces over the next four years. Contracts for the Tempest next-generation fighter programme and new military helicopters have already been suspended.
The Glascode complex covers approximately 405 hectares and employs around 870 people. The facility is part of BAE Systems' £150 million investment programme, which also includes a plant in Washington in the north-east of England and production in Radway Green. The new facility will be largely automated and will not create significant new jobs.
The government has stated that the development of Glashow will not affect its current ability to support Ukraine and has also promised to build six more new ammunition production facilities, although details have not yet been released.
