Scranton Ammunition Plant boosts production by 50% amid Ukraine conflict

The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, according to Defense News, is at the forefront of a significant surge in artillery shell production amid escalating demands from the Ukraine conflict.

A Pennsylvania ammunition plant crucial to Ukraine’s defence against Russia has ramped up its production by 50 per cent to meet the growing demand for artillery shells, with further expansion on the horizon, Caliber.Az reports, citing the article.

The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, known for its historic role in munitions production, has recently undergone a $400 million modernization effort. The facility transforms 2,000-pound steel bars into 155mm howitzer shells, which are then sent to Iowa for assembly with explosives and fuses.

These shells are subsequently delivered to Ukraine, where they play a vital role in the ongoing conflict. The Scranton plant, along with two other nearby facilities in Wilkes-Barre, has increased its output from 24,000 rounds per month to 36,000. 

Additionally, three new production lines are being developed to further boost capacity. “Our focus right now is exclusively on 155mm shells,” said Richard Hansen, the Army commander’s representative at the plant, during a recent tour of the expansive factory. “We’re working diligently to meet the Pentagon’s ambitious goals,” said Richard Hansen, the Army commander’s representative at the plant.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the US has delivered over 3 million 155mm artillery rounds to support Ukrainian forces, according to government data. Earlier this month, the White House approved an additional $125 million in military aid to Ukraine, including more 155mm shells. 

The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, which started as a locomotive repair shop in the early 20th century, was repurposed by the Army into a large-caliber artillery production facility during the Korean War. General Dynamics has operated the plant under US government contract since 2006. Currently, the plant is halfway through a significant modernization project, encompassing around 20 separate initiatives.

During a recent tour, officials showcased a new production line featuring an advanced machine designed to replace three older ones, optimizing space in the sprawling 500,000-square-foot facility. The plant employs approximately 300 workers, as noted by a General Dynamics spokesperson. 

Many of these employees have dedicated decades to operating the machinery that cuts steel, heats it to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and then forges, machines, washes, and paints the artillery shells. Each round undergoes meticulous manual inspection at every stage to ensure it adheres to strict specifications. “We aim for precision and reliability,” Hansen emphasized.

“The goal is for each shell to perform exactly as intended, whether it’s hitting its target or ensuring safety for the gun crew and civilians. Lives depend on the accuracy and effectiveness of these rounds in the field.”