UK resumes large-calibre gun barrel production after 20 years
The United Kingdom has resumed domestic production of large-calibre gun barrels and breeches for the first time in 20 years, with Rheinmetall UK opening a manufacturing facility in Telford on October 22
The new facility produces components for 120mm and 155mm weapon systems, including the RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer and future artillery platforms, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
The factory began production just eight months after Rheinmetall took over the previously empty site in autumn 2025. It supports 100 skilled jobs, with plans to expand the workforce as production increases.
British specialists underwent training at Rheinmetall's facility in Unterlüß, Germany, before returning to establish production in Telford.
The project is part of the UK-Germany Trinity House Agreement, signed in October 2024 to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation and NATO's collective deterrence.
British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting described the opening as the restoration of a critical national defense capability.
“Britain is back in the business of making the weapons that our Armed Forces need to defend the nation against our adversaries,” he said.
The facility adds to Rheinmetall UK's existing defense projects, including the Boxer armored vehicle and Challenger 3 main battle tank programs.
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