BAE Systems, AMS to support Ukraine artillery systems

BAE Systems M777 155 mm/39 calibre ultra lightweight howitzer in service with the Ukrainian forces can hit targets to a maximum range of 24.7 km using unassisted rounds and has a sustained rate of fire of 2 rds/min. (Ministry of Defence of Ukraine)

BAE Systems and AMS Integrated Solutions have signed an agreement to provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for artillery systems in Ukraine.

According to a BAE Systems statement on 18 December, the agreement will enable the two companies to offer “specialised artillery systems support” directly to the Armed Forces of Ukraine from within the country.

Under the agreement, BAE Systems and AMS will provide MRO support services for artillery weapons donated by the UK government, with the latter extending the services through its existing maintenance centres in Ukraine, BAE Systems said.

A spokesperson for BAE Systems told Janes on 19 December that as part of various UK government packages of support to Ukraine, there are “a number of” BAE Systems artillery systems in service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The BAE Systems, AMS partnership will support these donated artillery systems, the spokesperson added.

The teaming agreement is “solely” to offer MRO services, said the spokesperson, adding that BAE Systems will continue to “explore the best ways to help Ukraine deliver long-term national security”.

“We plan for the BAE Systems/AMS team to provide a turnkey holistic support package for our artillery systems to maximise effectiveness and readiness, utilising the respective expertise from both companies,” the spokesperson said.

According to a UK Parliament report titled Military assistance to Ukraine since the Russian invasion published in October 2023 the country is the second largest provider of military assistance to Ukraine, having committed GBP4.6 billion (USD5.8 billion) since February 2022.