IRIA News

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The U.S. Army has awarded BAE Systems a $162 million (£124 million) contract for M777 lightweight howitzer major structures. The initial deliveries of the systems are expected to begin in 2026.

BAE Systems has officially begun work on the M777 howitzer program, collaborating with suppliers in both the United States and the United Kingdom to manufacture the titanium structures that form the core of the artillery system. The project initially launched under an Undefinitized Contract Action (UCA) awarded in December 2023, has been finalized.

Production of the first major components will take place at BAE Systems’ state-of-the-art artillery development and manufacturing facility in Sheffield, UK, alongside contributions from its U.S.-based supply network.

Vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Weapons Systems, John Borton said, “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.” BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK business manages the manufacture and assembly of the M777 lightweight howitzers.

Borton added, “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.”

Global interest in the M777 continues to grow, with demand coming from Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The resumption of M777 production offers a valuable opportunity for both new and current operators to take advantage of an active manufacturing line and the cost benefits associated with large-scale production.

Weighing just half as much as traditional 155mm towed howitzers, the M777 offers exceptional mobility and rapid deployment capabilities. It has proven its effectiveness in sustained combat and remains a trusted asset for armed forces across the globe.

With over 1,250 units currently fielded by military forces in the United States, Europe, Canada, Australia, and India, the M777 continues to stand as the premier lightweight howitzer in operational service today.

M777 Howitzer

The M777 howitzer is designed for exceptional mobility, offering a lightweight structure with a low logistical footprint while maintaining high operational reliability. This significant reduction in weight allows it to be easily transported by air, sea, or land, including lifts by helicopters like the CH-47 Chinook or fixed-wing aircraft such as the C-130.

Its mobility enables rapid deployment in various environments, making it ideal for both conventional warfare and rapid reaction operations. The howitzer’s fast transport and rapid redeployment capabilities enhance battlefield survivability, allowing it to reposition frequently without the heightened threat of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) typically associated with self-propelled artillery systems.

The M777 howitzers are extensively used by the United States Army and Marine Corps, and the systems are frequently deployed in both combat and training exercises across multiple continents.

The M777 is capable of delivering accurate firepower over long distances, effectively engaging targets across challenging terrain. Its advanced fire control system integrates digital targeting technology for faster and more accurate fire missions. This includes compatibility with precision-guided munitions such as the M982 Excalibur, which can strike targets at distances exceeding 40 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy. These capabilities give the M777 a substantial advantage in both offensive and defensive operations, allowing forces to engage enemies from long range with minimal collateral damage.

M777 Specifications

• Caliber: 155mm (NATO standard)
• Crew: 5–8 personnel (optimal: 7)
• Weight: Approx. 4,200 kg (9,300 lbs)
• Maximum Range (Standard Round): 24.7 km (15 miles)
• Maximum Range (Rocket-Assisted Projectile): 30+ km (18.6 miles)
• Ammunition: All current and developmental U.S. and NATO standard 155mm projectiles and charges, including Modular Artillery Charge System
• Rate of Fire: 4 rounds per minute for up to 2 minutes (Burst) and 2 rounds per minute (Sustained)