The site will become operational later this year and will initially support production of the M777 lightweight towed howitzer. It will also create 200 highly skilled jobs and support over 60 businesses across the UK supply chain.
“This new factory is a big boost for South Yorkshire and a significant step forward in strengthening our British defence industrial base,” said John Healey. “This is a vote of confidence in our world-leading defence sector and good, skilled British jobs, underpinned by this government’s Plan for Change.”
Healey added: “I welcome BAE Systems’ long-term commitment to this new site, which demonstrates how defence can be an engine for growth, bringing investment and opportunities to communities across the UK, including right here in South Yorkshire.”
The site will evolve beyond M777 production to deliver a range of advanced combat systems. This development supports the UK Government’s ambition to revitalise and sustain the country’s artillery manufacturing capabilities.
Guests from across Sheffield toured the new facility and met apprentices who will soon join the production lines. As the site prepares for full operation, these early employees represent the future of sovereign artillery capabilities in the UK.
“Our significant investment adds to Sheffield’s rich manufacturing history and reputation as an industrial powerhouse,” said John Borton, Managing Director of BAE Systems Weapons Systems UK. “It’s fantastic to be able to welcome the Defence Secretary, as well as local partners and suppliers from across the city to get a first look at our progress and hear about the commitments we’re making in Sheffield, as part of delivering sovereign artillery capabilities.”
BAE Systems’ Weapons Systems UK business remains the UK’s only artillery design house, developing and supporting land and naval gun systems. It manufactures the M777, the only combat-proven lightweight howitzer in the world.
Earlier this year, BAE Systems was awarded a Ministry of Defence contract to deliver 150 UK-designed artillery barrels to Ukraine, in partnership with Sheffield Forgemasters. The company has also been carrying out in-country maintenance of 105mm Light Guns and is expanding its artillery support services.
The Sheffield facility is part of BAE Systems’ broader investment in UK defence infrastructure. This includes a £300 million shipbuilding transformation in Glasgow, a £200 million munitions facility expansion, and a £220 million advanced technology factory in Rochester.
