The Artillery Ammunition Casing Market size is estimated at USD 2.58 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 3.76 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.80% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
Modern warfare operations are heavily reliant on the availability and reliability of ammunition. Specifically, artillery shells play a vital role, as they are fundamental to executing effective offensive and defensive strategies by providing necessary firepower and support. The artillery ammunition casing market is witnessing steady growth, driven by technological advancements, a surge in precision-guided artillery shell production, and a pivot towards modular ammunition designs.
The 155 mm caliber segment stands out as a primary catalyst for this expansion, with nations emphasizing long-range, high-explosive rounds for contemporary warfare. A notable trend is the shift towards composite and combustible casings, which aim to enhance the operational efficiency of artillery systems. Recent advancements in ammunition are enabling weapons to address a broader range of battlefield threats. True Velocity, a US-based firm, has engineered a polymer composite case that surpasses brass in several key aspects. The TVCM (True Velocity Composite-Case Munition), crafted with enhanced precision, achieves higher and more consistent velocities than its brass (or steel) counterparts, all while being 30% lighter. Supply chain disruptions and raw material shortages are hindering market growth. However, the rising adoption of modular and smart ammunition casings presents new opportunities in the market.
The 155 mm caliber artillery ammunition casing market is pivotal to global defense modernization, driven by rising demand amid ongoing conflicts. Rapid production expansions and international collaborations, particularly in Europe, South Korea, and North America, are reshaping the market landscape. While brass remains dominant, the shift toward steel and hybrid composite casings highlights efforts to enhance durability and reduce costs. The adoption of smart munitions and extended-range artillery systems necessitates advanced casing materials and structural innovations.
For instance, in July 2023, BAE Systems’ USD 352.2 million contract with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD)—expandable to over USD 503.2 million—reinforces the critical role of 155 mm artillery shell production in modern defense strategies. With global conflicts driving demand for high-caliber munitions, this investment underscores the UK’s commitment to sovereign manufacturing and stockpile resilience, ensuring a secure and sustained supply of 155 mm ammunition casings for long-term military readiness.
Furthermore, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is spearheading innovation with its Next Generation 155 mm Artillery Ammunition Family, including the XM1113 and XM1128 rounds, designed to exceed 70 km in range. Additionally, the exploration of hybrid metallic-polymer casings reflects a focus on lightweight, high-pressure-resistant solutions, signaling a transformative phase in artillery shell design and material engineering. These developments are set to propel market growth in the years ahead.
Amid escalating cross-border conflicts, political disputes, and the ongoing war between Russia and NATO countries, European nations, including Russia, the U.K., Germany, and France, are intensifying their focus on bolstering defense capabilities. This heightened emphasis on defense is underscored by increased defense expenditures and a surge in the procurement of advanced artillery systems, propelling market growth across the region.
Companies like BAE Systems, Nammo UK, and MSI Defense Systems are pivotal in the UK's defense manufacturing landscape, especially in ammunition casing production. These firms primarily supply brass and steel casings for military and law enforcement. The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) consistently procures large volumes of ammunition, bolstering domestic casing manufacturers. With the UK government pledging increased defense spending, a steady supply of casings is essential for training, combat, and stockpiling. Furthermore, France's ammunition casing industry, pivotal to both military and civilian markets, is primarily driven by domestic defense needs, notably those of the French Armed Forces (FAF) and its commitments to NATO defense initiatives.
Additionally, in March 2024, Rostec, a prominent Russian defense manufacturer, declared a 30% uptick in artillery shell casing production, attributing the surge to intensified military actions in Ukraine. The newly established production lines are dedicated to high-volume outputs for 122 mm and 152 mm shells, guaranteeing a steady ammunition supply for frontline forces. As nations increasingly invest in next-generation artillery systems and embrace advanced weaponry, the market in the region witnesses robust growth.
The artillery ammunition casing market features moderate fragmentation, with numerous players commanding substantial market shares. Notable players include General Dynamics Corporation, Rheinmetall AG, BAE Systems plc, Nammo AS, and Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd.
Major players are heavily investing in the production of advanced artillery systems and their compatible ammunition, ensuring peak performance on the battlefield. For example, in October 2024, Rheinmetall AG unveiled a next-gen 120 mm KE ammunition tailored to counter state-of-the-art protection technologies. Additionally, in January 2023, MESKO S.A. rolled out its 155 mm HE-ER (High Explosive-Extended Range) artillery shell, spotlighting its superior range and precision capabilities.
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