Union to Produce 155mm Shells Amid Global Demand
Union, a venture-backed startup, is launching a new production facility in the Dallas area to capture a share of the growing market for 155mm artillery rounds, as the US Army struggles to ramp up its own production.
Addressing the Decline in US Manufacturing
„The problem behind the energetic enterprise is that we don’t build the things that build the things anymore in this country, and we forgot how to forge steel,” said Joe Musselman, chairman and co-founder of Union, and also a founder and managing partner at Bravo Victor Venture Capital (BVVC), which is incubating the startup. He added, „We gave away our manufacturing might over the last half century.”
Rapid Funding and Production Goals
Union, co-founded by CEO Will Somerindyke, raised over $52 million in a short period to establish a 155mm production facility in Carrollton, Texas. The company aims to have two production lines capable of producing 60,000 155mm shells per month by late 2026.
Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
The first production line, expected to employ 50 to 75 people, is projected to produce its first sample by the end of the year. The second line is slated to become operational by 2026. Musselman noted that the team discovered ways to reduce the size of the production line by 30 to 40 percent and increase capacity through advanced robotics and machining improvements.
Challenges in Onshoring Production
„By far, the most difficult thing [has] been pulling together these different pieces and parts, and mapping supply chains and onshoring all of this education back to the United States,” Musselman said.
Global Artillery Demand
Union’s production lines are launching amid a global surge in demand for artillery stockpiles due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
US Army Production Delays
The US Army is facing delays in its own efforts to ramp up 155mm shell production. While the Army initially aimed to produce 100,000 155mm shells by October, the service is now expecting a six-month delay. The Army is considering terminating General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems’ (GD-OTS) management of three new 155mm artillery round production lines in Mesquite, Texas.
Competition in the Market
Other companies are also considering entering the 155mm shell market. Divergent 3D, an additive manufacturing company, is researching materials for manufacturing 155mm or Stinger bodies.
Partnerships and Contracts
Union is seeking contracts as a prime or subcontractor. Musselman stated that Union would partner with companies like GD-OTS. Union has secured its first deal with Regulus Global, valued at around $221 million, for the sale of an undisclosed number of 155mm shells to the US government and NATO allies.
Potential Government Orders
Union is also pursuing forthcoming US government requests for proposals. The recently approved reconciliation bill includes line items that could be used for artillery production. The Army’s fiscal 2026 budget request includes $219 million to support the purchase of 31,369 155mm rounds.
