US Army Seeks $18 Billion to Replenish Munitions Lost to Ukraine

FILE - Airmen with the 436th Aerial Port Squadron use a forklift to move 155 mm shells ultimately bound for Ukraine, April 29, 2022, at Dover Air Force Base, Del. The Pentagon announced a new package of long-term security assistance for Ukraine on Friday, Feb. 24, 2023, marking the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion with a $2 billion commitment to send more rounds of ammunition and a variety of small, high-tech drones into the fight. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

The U.S. Army is seeking $18 billion to expand and modernize its munitions production capabilities following the critical depletion of key stockpiles because of the United States’ ongoing security aid to Ukraine.

The $18 billion is planned to be spent over 15 years, according to Army Secretary Christine Wormuth. The first tranche of investments—$1.5 billion—is included in the Pentagon’s budget request for fiscal year 2024.