Taiwan has started early-stage preparations to co-produce 155mm artillery shells with the United States, according to Lt. Gen. Lin Wen-hsiang, chief of the Armaments Bureau.
Lin highlighted the shells’ critical role amid high demand in Ukraine and the importance of securing local stockpiles in response to Chinese threats and potential supply disruptions.
Officials familiar with the program noted the collaboration is tied to Taiwan’s planned M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, which require US-standard ammunition. Domestic production will ensure compatibility while following US specifications.
Taiwan’s defense ministry intends to invest around NT$14 billion ($443 million) to build a modernized, automated production line at the 202nd Factory, enhancing 155mm and other high-demand munitions output. A successful pilot could pave the way for co-production of other weapon types.
The 155mm shells, roughly 2 feet long and weighing about 100 pounds, are standard NATO artillery ammunition used in counter-battery, long-range, and maneuver-support operations. Similar efforts are underway in the US, Poland, and Belgium to boost local 155mm production amid rising global demand.
