Rheinmetall opens UK gun factory with capacity for 245 barrels a year

Rheinmetall has opened its UK Gun Hall in Telford, restoring Britain's ability to build large-caliber tank and artillery guns after a 20-year gap. The 11,500-square-meter plant will make 120mm and 155mm systems, including guns for the Challenger 3 tank, and over 50 breeches a year.

• Plant capacity reaches 245 barrels and over 50 breeches annually
• Breech production began in May 2026, barrels followed in June
• Facility employs 35 people now, with over 100 jobs expected
• Rheinmetall has invested over £200 million in UK operations in five years