BAE Systems selected Hanwha Defense USA for modernization project

Kelly expressed eagerness to implement this upgrade at Radford and expand the modernization collaboration with BAE Systems

BAE Systems Ordnance Systems Inc. (OSI) has chosen Hanwha Defense USA (HDUSA), the U.S. defense arm of South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace, to update an existing production facility at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant. John Swift, Vice President and General Manager of BAE Systems Ordnance Systems Inc., expressed his full commitment to modernizing the Radford Army Ammunition Plant and supporting the U.S. Army's needs. Swift noted excitement about partnering with Hanwha Defense USA, leveraging their expertise to integrate advanced chemical processing capabilities into the manufacturing environment.

The modernization of aging facilities from the World War II era is crucial for national security. BAE Systems prioritizes enhancing safety measures in its processes while continuing to provide essential capabilities to the warfighter. The company's track record of modernization during manufacturing, combined with HDUSA's experience in energy facilities, will lead to the establishment of a cutting-edge process for propellant manufacturing. John Kelly, President and CEO of HDUSA, highlighted that the upgrade draws from technology and experience already applied in Hanwha's Korean energy facilities. Kelly expressed eagerness to implement this upgrade at Radford and expand the modernization collaboration with BAE Systems and the Army. BAE Systems OSI has served as the operating contractor for the Radford Army Ammunition Plant since 2012. In December 2023, the company secured a contract extension to continue operating the Holston Army Ammunition Plant in Kingsport, Tennessee, until 2035.