Olin Corporation announced the groundbreaking of a new 6.8mm ammunition production facility at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Missouri on February 5, 2025. The company’s Winchester division partnered with the Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments and Ammunition (JPEO A&A) and the Joint Munitions Command to mark the start of construction on the 450,000-square-foot building.
What it means
The new facility is designed to manufacture all components of 6.8mm ammunition as well as finished rounds for the U.S. military, supporting the Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) Program. Maj. Gen. John T. Reim of JPEO A&A stated that “This facility will represent a significant step forward in equipping our Soldiers with the advanced munitions they need to maintain overmatch on the battlefield.”
The construction effort relies heavily on local industry, with Olin reporting that 90% of the work is supported by industries in the Kansas City region and nearly 50 local businesses are involved. Ken Lane, Olin President and CEO, said the company is proud to partner with the U.S. Army to bring new capabilities to the warfighter and build on its history of ammunition manufacturing excellence. The Lake City plant has been a center for U.S. ammunition production since 1941.
Key facts
- Facility size: 450,000 square feet
- Location: Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, Missouri
- Product: 6.8mm ammunition components and finished rounds for the U.S. military
- Program: Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) Program
- Construction support: 90% from Kansas City region industries; nearly 50 local businesses involved
- Attendees: More than 100 special guests, including staff from Congressman Sam Graves and Senator Eric Schmitt’s offices
- Company headquarters: Clayton, Mo.
Source: Olin Corporation news release (PR Newswire)