A Pennsylvania ammunition plant in Scranton has increased its production by 50% to keep up with the heightened demand for artillery shells used in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia. The plant, known as the Scranton Army Ammunition Plant, plays a vital role in manufacturing 155 mm howitzer rounds by cutting and forging steel bars, which are then sent to Iowa for packing with explosives and installation of fuses. These shells are crucial in the ongoing fight in Ukraine and are in high demand.
Government officials recently announced the production increase, highlighting the plant’s $400 million modernization project. Alongside two other ammunition plants in Wilkes-Barre, the Scranton plant has ramped up its output from 24,000 rounds per month to 36,000 rounds per month. Additionally, three new production lines are in development to further boost the manufacturing capacity of the facility.
Richard Hansen, the Army commander’s representative at the plant, emphasized the current focus on producing 155 mm rounds to meet the Pentagon’s objectives. The US government has supplied over 3 million artillery rounds to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022, with additional support announced recently, including $125 million in weapons, including 155 mm shells.
Originally a locomotive repair shop, the Scranton plant was converted into a production facility for large-caliber artillery for the Korean War by the US Army. Managed by General Dynamics since 2006, the facility is currently undergoing significant modernization, with numerous projects aimed at enhancing production efficiency and capacity.
The plant, occupying a 500,000-square-foot area, employs around 300 individuals responsible for various production processes, including cutting, heating, forging, machining, washing, and painting the shells. Each artillery round undergoes meticulous manual inspections at every stage to ensure it meets quality standards and performs effectively on the battlefield.
Hansen emphasized the critical nature of the artillery shells, stating that their precision and reliability are essential as they are relied upon to protect the lives of military personnel and civilians. The plant’s ongoing efforts aim to produce munitions that meet stringent requirements and support the military operations in Ukraine.
