Full Breakdown
Army's 155mm Artillery Production Faces Significant Delays
2/26/2026, 2:38:41 PM
Current Production Challenges
The U.S. Army is experiencing substantial delays in the production of 155mm artillery projectiles at its facility in Mesquite, Texas. Brent Ingraham, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Sustainment, and Technology, expressed dissatisfaction with the current production levels during a recent congressional hearing. The Army aimed to achieve a production goal of 100,000 shells per month, a target that has not been met, with current output at only 56,000 shells monthly. Ingraham stated, “I’m not happy with where we are at Mesquite either,” highlighting the urgency of the situation following increased artillery demands due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Background on the Mesquite Facility
The Mesquite facility was established in 2024 as part of the Army's efforts to enhance its artillery production capabilities. General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) was contracted to manage the facility and oversee the establishment of three Universal Artillery Projectile Lines. However, as of now, the facility has yet to produce any artillery projectiles, raising concerns among lawmakers about the effectiveness of GD-OTS's management.
Official Statements & Responses
During the congressional hearing, Rep. Rob Wittman, Chairman of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee, questioned the Army's progress, stating, “Here we are now, two years later, and the facility has yet to produce a single projectile.” Ingraham confirmed that the Army is currently in negotiations with GD-OTS regarding the production lines and anticipated that the company would invest further to enhance the facility's capabilities. Maj. Gen. John Reim, the Program Acquisition Executive for Armaments and Ammunition, noted that while the Army is not close to meeting its production goal, a plan to "re-scope" the Mesquite facility is expected soon.
Criticism & Opposition
Lawmakers have urged the Army to consider terminating its contract with GD-OTS if production issues persist. Wittman emphasized the importance of making decisive moves, stating, “If you’re going to fail, fail quickly,” and advocated for recovering resources expended on the project. This sentiment reflects growing frustration among congressional leaders regarding the Army's ability to meet its artillery production needs.
What's Next
The Army is expected to finalize negotiations with GD-OTS soon, which may include a revised plan for the Mesquite facility. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial in determining the future of the Army's artillery production capabilities and its ability to meet ongoing military demands.
Verbatim Quotes
- “First, let me start by saying I’m not happy with where we are at Mesquite either, right?” — Brent Ingraham, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Sustainment, and Technology
- “Here we are now, two years later, and the facility has yet to produce a single projectile for 155, or any other artillery for that matter,” — Rep. Rob Wittman, Chairman of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee
- “If you’re going to fail, fail quickly.” — Rep. Rob Wittman, Chairman of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee
