Could an outdated US Army organic industrial base threaten US readiness?
US soldiers screw fuses onto 155mm rounds. (Photo: US Army)
The US Army’s organic industrial base still uses World War II production methods and technologies, leading to delays and cost overruns and limiting its ability to produce critical ammunition and maintain its ground fleet in operation.
Despite investment of more than US$5 billion over the past four years, the US Army’s organic industrial base (OIB) continues to face issues with ageing machinery and outdated structures and procedures that risk impacting the country’s capacity to maintain its land fleet and surge production when needed.
Consisting of 23 depots, arsenals and facilities owned by the government, the OIB is responsible for manufacturing various types of rounds as well as parts and components for vehicles and weapon systems. It also repairs, overhauls and extends the life of military equipment and platforms.
“Most army ammunition plants and arsenals have technology and processes
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027]()
Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027
The Bolide 2 missile has a larger warhead than the original version as well as an aluminium nose cone, which replaces a copper version and allows for more explosive content and fragments.
-
![Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour]()
Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour
The HEAT 758 has a tandem warhead consisting of an initial charge which neutralises the explosive reactive armour and the main charge which penetrates the primary armour. It is fired from a standard Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon launcher and has been ordered by an undisclosed customer.
-
![Malaysian Army vehicle renewal slowed by politics, scandal and economic strain]()
Malaysian Army vehicle renewal slowed by politics, scandal and economic strain
Despite political and economic headwinds, companies are positioning themselves for current and upcoming Malaysian Army requirements. Shephard spoke with some of them at DSA 2026.
