The Scranton Army Ammunition Plant in Pennsylvania has significantly increased its production of 155 mm howitzer rounds, a crucial artillery shell in Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. The facility has managed to boost output by 50%, now producing 36,000 rounds monthly, up from 24,000.
This surge in production comes as part of a $400 million modernization effort at the historic factory. The plant, which began its life as a locomotive repair shop in the early 20th century, has evolved into a critical component of the U.S. defense industry. During the Korean War, the Army repurposed the facility for large-caliber artillery production, showcasing its adaptability to changing military needs.
The manufacturing process at Scranton is both intricate and precise. Workers transform 2,000-pound (907-kilogram) steel bars into artillery shells through a series of steps including cutting, heating to 2,000°F (1,093°C), forging, machining, washing, and painting. This temperature is significantly higher than the melting point of many metals, highlighting the extreme conditions involved in production.
Richard Hansen, the Army commander's representative at the plant, emphasized the current focus on 155 mm rounds: "Right now we're concentrating on 155. That's pretty much all we're concentrating on." The plant's dedication to this specific caliber underscores its importance in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Quality control is paramount in ammunition production. As Hansen noted, "We want it to go where we point it. We want it to go as far as we need it to go to do its job." This attention to detail is crucial, as lives depend on the accuracy and reliability of these munitions.
The U.S. has been a significant supporter of Ukraine's defense efforts, having sent over 3 million 155 mm artillery rounds since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Recently, the White House announced an additional $125 million in military aid, including more of these critical shells.
General Dynamics, one of the world's largest defense contractors, has operated the Scranton plant since 2006 under a government contract. This arrangement is part of a network of government-owned, contractor-operated facilities that form the backbone of U.S. ammunition production.
The ongoing modernization project at Scranton includes about 20 individual initiatives, with new production lines being developed to further increase capacity. One such addition is a state-of-the-art machine that will replace three older units, maximizing efficiency in the 500,000-square-foot (46,452-square-meter) facility.
With approximately 300 employees, many of whom have decades of experience, the Scranton plant continues to play a vital role in supporting U.S. military objectives and aiding allies like Ukraine. As the modernization efforts progress, the facility is poised to meet the increasing demand for these critical munitions in an ever-changing global landscape.