Media: UK to boost domestic explosives production amid fears of US unreliability

Britain is set to dramatically expand its domestic explosives manufacturing capacity in a major step toward munitions self-sufficiency, amid growing concerns across Europe about the reliability of the United States as a defence partner.

According to plans revealed by The Times, UK defence giant BAE Systems will erect shipping-container-based production sites across the country to manufacture RDX explosives — a critical component in 155mm artillery rounds and other military munitions. The initiative aims to reduce Britain’s dependency on American and French imports, bolstering national resilience in the face of rising global instability.

The move marks the most significant shake-up in UK explosives production in more than half a century and comes as part of a broader push by European defence firms to decouple from U.S. supply chains. BAE is also preparing to build three additional production facilities to provide redundancy in the event of an attack on any single site.

The effort to enhance “sovereign munitions” production reflects the lessons drawn from the war in Ukraine, where demand for NATO-standard 155mm shells has surged. BAE has increased output sixteen-fold over the past two years and is expected to scale even further by the summer. For security reasons, the specific quantity of shells now being produced remains classified.

Defence Secretary John Healey welcomed the announcement, calling the defence industry “the foundation of our ability to fight and win on the battlefield.” He added: “Strengthening homegrown artillery production is an important step in learning the lessons from Ukraine, boosting our industrial resilience and making defence an engine for growth.”

The strategic pivot is also being driven by concerns over future access to critical materials. Previously, BAE sourced its RDX primarily from the U.S. and France. However, the company now aims to market its new proprietary manufacturing technique globally and produce munitions free of American components — known as "Itar-free" — to avoid the restrictions imposed by the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). These rules limit the export, modification, or resale of U.S.-linked military equipment without American government approval.

Analysts warn that in the event of a larger conflict, the global market for ammunition could collapse under pressure, leaving nations without sufficient stocks or access. “If you don’t have the ammunition, you can’t fight,” said defence analyst Francis Tusa, who has been briefed on the BAE initiative. “Having your own plants and ability to create raw explosives and propellant isn’t just a nice thing to have, it is a must have.”

The shift also reflects political anxieties. Former President Donald Trump’s record of suspending military aid, engaging in tariff wars, and threatening key NATO allies has amplified concerns in London and other European capitals about Washington’s long-term reliability as a defence supplier.

By Vugar Khalilov