Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced today that the DoD Office of Inspector General released the report, “Evaluation of the DoD’s Replenishment and Management of 155mm High Explosive Ammunition.”
The evaluation examined whether the DoD developed an effective strategy to meet the total munitions requirements for 155mm High Explosive (HE) ammunition, balancing war reserve, training, and testing requirements.
The U.S. funded security assistance packages from FY2022 through FY2024, using supplemental appropriations, including the Presidential Drawdown Authority. From August 2021 through March 2024, the President authorized 55 drawdowns of equipment and services from DoD stocks and defense services for the Government of Ukraine, including the transfer of more than 1 million rounds of 155mm HE ammunition. In response, the DoD transferred three types of 155mm HE ammunition from Army and Marine Corps stockpiles to the Government of Ukraine.
“The DoD must maintain sufficient munitions, such as the 155mm HE ammunition used in several Howitzer weapons systems, to meet threats to vital U.S. national security interests,” said IG Storch. “Having sufficient ammunition is a critical component of our military’s readiness, effectiveness, and overall national defense strategy. Moreover, maintaining ample ammunition reserves allows for continuous training and preparation, ensuring our forces remain proficient and capable. Additionally, managing a well-stocked inventory helps mitigate the risks associated with any shortages or supply chain disruptions.”
The DoD OIG determined that Army and Marine Corps officials implemented an effective strategy for managing their on hand inventories to support war reserve, training, and testing requirements for 155mm HE ammunition. Specifically, Army officials prioritized their on-hand inventory to support training and testing requirements, while Marine Corps officials prioritized war reserve requirements. When testing and training objectives permitted, Army officials substituted an older 155mm HE ammunition variant to preserve the newer version for on-hand inventory. Additionally, Army officials invested in the industrial base to increase 155mm HE ammunition production thereby mitigating the risk of a future shortfall.
The DoD OIG did not have any recommendations.