The UK is ramping up its domestic weapons manufacturing in a major strategic shift aimed at reducing reliance on defence imports from the United States and France. The initiative, led by BAE Systems, comes amid growing anxiety over the reliability of international military partners, particularly under the current U.S. administration.
BAE Systems, Europe’s largest defence contractor, has unveiled plans to build three new facilities in the UK dedicated to the production of synthetic explosives and propellants, including RDX — a key component in 155mm artillery shells used by the British Army. The expansion aims to bolster the UK’s sovereign defence capabilities, strengthen its supply chain, and position it as a major exporter in the global arms market.
The move reflects broader concerns across Europe about over-dependence on foreign-made components, especially from the US. With President Donald Trump’s approach to NATO and transatlantic defence cooperation raising eyebrows among European allies, several governments are reconsidering their defence strategies.
BAE’s plans also include making its ammunition “Itar-free” — free from US International Traffic in Arms Regulations — allowing for greater flexibility in global arms exports without the need for American approval.
“Our leap forward in synthetic energetics and propellant manufacture will strengthen the UK’s supply chain resilience and support our ramp-up of critical munitions production,” said Steve Cardew, BAE’s business development director. “This is a direct response to the increasingly uncertain world we’re living in.”
The UK government has welcomed the announcement, framing it as a national security and economic priority. Defence Secretary John Healey said, “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 government has also emphasised the economic benefits of the move, with BAE’s expansion expected to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs and open up new export markets for British-made weapons.
With global demand for military-grade materials such as nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine putting pressure on supply chains, BAE’s domestic production initiative is intended to reduce bottlenecks and improve reliability in future military operations.
The development marks a significant step in the UK’s push for self-sufficiency in defence, as geopolitical uncertainty and shifting alliances prompt a rethinking of long-term military preparedness.
