North America 155MM Ammunition Market Size, Share, Russia-Ukraine War and Industry Analysis, By Guidance (Guided and Unguided), By Component (Projectiles, Primer, Propellant, Fuze, Projectile MetalBodies, and CCC & Containers), By Technology (High-Explosive (HE), Armor-Piercing, Illumination, Smoke, and Others), By Range (Below 30km, 31km to 50km, and Above 50km), By End-User (Ground/Land Forces and Naval Forces) and Country Forecast, 2025-2032

The North America 155MM ammunition market size was valued at USD 3,501.3 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 4,232.6 million in 2025 to USD 4,980.2 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.3% during the forecast period.

The North American 155mm ammunition market is a key segment of the defense industry due to its critical role in modern artillery systems used primarily by the U.S. and Canadian armed forces. This market has witnessed robust growth driven by increased defense spending, military modernization programs, and heightened geopolitical tensions. Demand has further intensified in light of ongoing conflict-related requirements, such as those arising from the Russia-Ukraine war. North America dominates the global 155mm market, accounting for a substantial share of production and consumption. The rapid ramp-up in ammunition production facilities, notably in the U.S., reflects the need to replenish dwindling stockpiles and equip forces with enhanced artillery capabilities. Technological advancements are focal points in this market, including the integration of smart and precision-guided munitions, advancements in extended-range projectiles, improvements in propellant and explosives technology, and innovations in fuzing and detonation systems.

Market demand remains strong for both traditional unguided rounds and emerging guided munitions due to their improved target accuracy and reduced collateral damage. The industry is also witnessing increased government collaboration with private manufacturers, driving innovation and production agility essential to meet current and future operational needs.

Key players in the North American 155mm ammunition market include General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, IMT Precision, Winchester (Olin Corporation), and MSM North America (Czechoslovak Group). General Dynamics in the U.S. and Canada operates major LAP (Load, Assemble, Pack) plants providing a diverse range of military calibers, including large-scale 155mm ammunition for both domestic and allied forces. IMT Precision, based in Canada, has ramped up production capacity at its Ontario facility to supply up to 15,000 155mm shell bodies per month for the U.S. Army and Canadian government, supporting surging demand due to military aid and stock replenishment.

RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR IMPACT

Rising Military Modernization to Boost Market Growth

The Russia-Ukraine war has acted as a catalyst for soaring demand in the North American 155mm ammunition market, reshaping both operational and strategic priorities for military planners in the U.S. and Canada. As Ukraine expended vast quantities of NATO-standard 155mm rounds to defend its territory, Western stockpiles , particularly those in North America were depleted at an unprecedented rates. This depletion triggered rapid increases in production capacity; for instance, the U.S. Army doubled its monthly output and set a new goal of 100,000 shells per month to compensate and ensure supply continuity for both domestic and allied needs.

The conflict also exposed vulnerabilities in sourcing and logistics, prompting governments to invest heavily in automation, capacity expansion, and supply chain resilience. For Canada, limited inventory and slower manufacturing rates drove urgent government action to scale up domestic production, further emphasizing North America's integral role in the global artillery supply chain. The ongoing war has therefore transformed 155mm ammunition from a routine procurement item into a strategic asset of national security, reshaping priorities in defense budgeting, manufacturing, and alliance support.

North American 155mm Ammunition Market TREND

Modernization and Technological Advancements to Propel Market Growth

Current trends in the North American 155mm ammunition market reveal a pronounced focus on modernization and technological advancement. Rising defense budgets and the need to replenish depleted stockpiles following major conflicts have supported steady growth, with increasing adoption of precision-guided munitions gradually supplanting older, unguided rounds. Advances in propellant, explosives, and fuze technologies are enabling shells with extended ranges (up to 50 km), higher accuracy, and improved reliability for both sustained bombardment and rapid, targeted fire missions. Networked artillery systems now incorporate smart components for targeting, making interoperability, modularity, and customizable payloads prominent trends in procurement and development programs. Key players, primarily in the U.S., are investing in automation and production upgrades to meet ambitious volume targets and respond to dynamic geopolitical stressors. Additionally, the manufacturing focus is gradually shifting to sustainable and eco-friendly materials, especially in propellants, further shaping the market’s directions.

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MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Capacity Expansion and Advanced Munitions to Accentuate Market Growth

The opportunity landscape for 155mm ammunition in North America centers on expanding manufacturing capacity, deploying next-generation guided and extended-range projectiles, and enhancing alliance-driven logistics. With U.S. and Canadian militaries committed to aggressive production scaling, manufacturers are positioned to secure long-term government contracts and diversify into allied supply chains. The move toward smart munitions and longer-range artillery is opening avenues for research collaboration, technology licensing, and integrated system solutions for NATO nations and partners. Sustained investment in automation, operational agility, and rapid prototyping allows manufacturers to take advantage of higher-margin segments such as guided shells and modular propellant solutions. Concurrently, the growing focus on sustainability, such as insensitive and eco-friendly propellants, presents new product development and differentiation in military procurement. North America's manufacturing capabilities and innovation ecosystem offer a robust platform for global market leadership, fueled by strong government support and rising international demand.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Geopolitical Instability and Military Modernization to Boost Market Growth

The primary forces driving demand for 155mm ammunition in North America are increasing geopolitical instability, ongoing conflicts, and the imperative of military modernization. Territorial disputes, border skirmishes, and heightened security threats have reinforced the strategic importance of robust artillery capabilities. In response to depleted stockpiles and evolving battlefield requirements, defense agencies are allocating substantial funds for both conventional and advanced munitions procurement, supporting North America 155MM ammunition market growth. Modernization programs aimed at upgrading artillery platforms, integrating precision guidance, and extending range are pushing demand for both traditional unguided shells and newer smart ammunition types. Moreover, alliance commitments and cooperative defense strategies, such as supporting Ukraine and other partners, are stimulating additional production and cross-border technology sharing, further consolidating North America’s leadership role in global artillery logistics.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Cost, Regulatory Hurdles, and Supply Chain Risks to Hamper Market Growth

Notable restraints in the North American 155mm ammunition market include the high cost of research, development, and procurement, stringent export controls, and vulnerability to supply chain disruptions. The development of advanced guided ammunition requires substantial investment and technical expertise, making it unaffordable for smaller buyers or less affluent allied nations. Strict regulatory frameworks especially governing export, environmental compliance, and safety add layers of complexity to manufacturing and distribution, sometimes slowing project timelines and impeding market access. Tariffs and trade tensions influencing the availability of critical materials such as propellant chemicals and casings increase costs for domestic military stockpiles, exposing the market to risks from import dependent supply chains. Lastly, automation initiatives and scaling production processes demand labor and capital investments that can restrict flexibility, particularly for smaller manufacturers attempting to compete with established defense giants.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Intense Competition and Rapid Technological Change to Present Major Challenges in the Market

The market faces several challenges, most notably intense competition among well-established defense contractors, rapid technological change, and the necessity for continuous adaptation to emerging combat doctrines. As key players vie for government contracts, the pressure to innovate drives a cycle of technological advancement, frequently shifting the baseline requirements for munitions in terms of accuracy, interoperability, and sustainability. The integration of network-centric and autonomous artillery systems introduces new compatibility demands, necessitating flexible solutions and accelerating the pace of R&D. Additionally, the increasing complexity of international procurement, such as navigating sanctions, licensing, and allied interoperability mandates, complicates market entry and expansion strategies even for established suppliers. Smaller companies struggle to sustain high R&D spending for next-generation guided and extended-range shells while balancing regulatory compliance and customer customization needs in a dynamic market environment.

SEGMENTATION Analysis

By Guidance

Unguided Shells Segment Dominated due to its Cost-Effectiveness

By guidance, the market is segmented into guided and unguided

The unguided segment captured the largest share of the market in 2024 and is anticipated to dominate in 2025 with a 73.41% share. Demand for unguided segment remains robust, as they offer cost-effective, reliable, and high-volume fire support for conventional operations, making them indispensable for sustained and area-saturation missions despite the emergence of guided alternatives.

The guided segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.6% over the forecast period. 

By Component

Modernization Programs Boosted Projectiles Segment Growth

As per the component, the market is classified into projectiles, primer, propellant, fuze, projectile metalbodies, and CCC & Containers.

The projectiles segment captured the largest share of the market in 2024 and is anticipated to dominate in 2025 with a 41.33% share. The segment is attracting increasing demand as militaries seek to upgrade firepower, range, and precision in next-generation artillery platforms, with modernization programs prioritizing advanced projectile technologies for both guided and unguided applications.

The fuze segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% over the forecast period. 

By Technology

Battlefield Adaptability Fueled High-Explosive Segment Expansion

By technology, the market is classified into high-explosive (HE), armor-piercing, illumination, smoke, and others.

The high-explosive (HE) segment captured the largest share of the market in 2024 and is anticipated to dominate in 2025 with a 76.82% share. High-explosive (HE) shells command the largest share due to their versatility, destructive power against personnel and fortifications, cost efficiency, and battlefield adaptability, making them the go-to choice for most sustained land combat scenarios.

The others segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% over the forecast period.

By Range

31km to 50km Segment Dominated due to its Ability to Enhance Tactical Flexibility

By range, the market is classified into below 30km, 31km to 50km, and above 50km.

The 31km to 50km segment captured the largest share of the market in 2024 and is anticipated to dominate in 2025 with a 44.27% share. The segment is in demand as armed forces embrace extended-range solutions to enhance tactical flexibility, support rapid maneuvering, and execute long-distance bombardment for area denial and deep fire missions.

The above 50km segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period. 

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By End-User

Ground/Land Forces Segment Led Owing to Growing Reliance On Modern Howitzers

By end-user, the market is classified into ground/land forces and naval forces.

The ground/land forces segment captured the largest North America 155MM Ammunition market share in 2024. In 2025, the segment is anticipated to dominate with 100.00% share. Land forces are the principal consumers of 155mm shells, driven by the critical need for indirect, sustained firepower in offensive and defensive engagements, and the growing reliance on modern howitzers and network-centric combat support systems.

The ground/land forces segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.3% over the forecast period. 

North American 155mm Ammunition Market REGIONAL Outlook

In terms of geography, the market is divided into U.S., and Canada.

The U.S. held the dominant share in 2023, valued at USD 2,429.3 million, and maintained its lead in 2024 with USD 3,345.8 million. The U.S. has witnessed surging demand for 155mm ammunition, propelled by military support to Ukraine, accelerated training schedules, and rapid force modernization. Government investments have doubled monthly output targets to replenish stockpiles and maintain operational readiness for contingency actions by the U.S. Army and allied partners. Production is concentrated in facilities with advanced automation, supporting both unguided and smart munition inventories essential for ongoing and future operational requirements.

In 2025, the Canada market is estimated to reach USD 187.4 million. Canada is facing acute shortages of 155mm ammunition, exposing vulnerabilities in force readiness and prompting urgent capacity-expansion initiatives. The government has invested in scaling up domestic production and automating process lines, with a focus on variants offering longer range and greater effectiveness for both national defense and alliance commitments. Rising security concerns are driving sustained demand for 155mm munitions, ensuring that stock levels meet operational needs and allied support obligations without compromising readiness.

Competitive Landscape

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Innovation, Modernization, and Aftermarket Reach Drive Leadership among Key Players

Key players in the North American 155mm ammunition market share include well-established defense contractors and specialized manufacturers such as American Ordnance LLC, American Rheinmetall Munitions, Armtec Defense Technologies, Ordnance Systems Inc (BAE Systems), Day & Zimmermann, General Atomics, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, IMT Precision, L3Harris Technologies, MSM North America, Northrop Grumman Corporation, and Nammo Defense Systems. These companies are pivotal in maintaining production scale, investing in R&D for next-generation ammunition technologies, and supporting government contracts critical to national and allied defense priorities. They collectively focus on enhancing manufacturing automation, developing advanced projectile and guidance technologies, and ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards while navigating complex global supply chains. Their strategic efforts continue to shape the market landscape as demand grows for both conventional and advanced artillery shells.

LIST OF KEY North American 155mm Ammunition COMPANIES PROFILED

• American Ordnance LLC.
• American Rheinmetall Munitions, Inc. (Rheinmetall AG)
• Armtec Defense Technologies
• Ordnance Systems Inc (BAE Systems)
• Day & Zimmermann
• General Atomics
• General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems
• IMT Precision (IMT Group)
• L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
• MSM North America (CZECHOSLOVAK GROUP a.s.)
• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• Nammo Defense Systems Inc.

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• September 2025 – BAE Systems would provide technology transfers and expertise to PGZ, enhancing Poland’s capacity to manufacture 155mm artillery shells. The new facility would utilize the same automation-driven manufacturing systems as BAE’s UK plants, enabling a sixteen-fold increase in the output of 155mm rounds, which will fortify NATO’s eastern defenses.
• June 2025 – The defense ministries of Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Nammo, the Norwegian defense firm. This partnership aims to reinforce ammunition supply chains and improve the military readiness of these Nordic nations through collaborative procurement and production arrangements for 155mm artillery munitions.
• May 2025 – Rheinmetall (Germany) and Reliance Defence (India) entered into a strategic partnership focused on the provision of ammunition. This development was formalized following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between representatives from both companies.
• November 2024 – Rheinmetall and Lithuanian stakeholders commenced the construction of a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing plant for 155mm artillery projectiles. The key agreements including a land lease and a master procurement agreement for shells were signed on November 29, 2024, setting the stage for expanded production within Lithuania.
• June 2024 – The German technology giant Rheinmetall landed a framework agreement with the German armed forces (Bundeswehr) covering the supply of 155mm artillery ammunition, with a value of up to USD 9.18 billion USD gross. The contract, finalized on June 20, 2024, was signed in Koblenz by Annette Lehnigk-Emden (Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support) and Rheinmetall representatives.

REPORT COVERAGE

This report analyzes the North America 155mm ammunition market, profiling leading manufacturers and integrators, key product segments (HE, extended-range/base-bleed/RAP, precision-guided rounds, fuzes/PGK, smoke, and illumination), and primary applications across land forces, training, and allied resupply. It highlights trends reshaping the region: accelerating adoption of precision effects, range extension with 52-caliber guns, industrial capacity expansion, and supply-chain localization. The study examines the forces behind recent growth elevated operational demand, stockpile replenishment, modernization funding, and multi-year procurement that has contributed to the market’s expansion.

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REPORT SCOPE AND SEGMENTATION