Ammo Modernization

The Ammo Modernization program, as detailed in Line Item 1630 of the Department of the Navy's FY2026 budget, is a procurement initiative focused on the modernization and lifecycle management of ground conventional ammunition for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). The primary objective of this program is to maximize readiness, supportability, and accountability for Class V(W) ammunition, ensuring that Marine Corps ammunition stocks remain safe, reliable, and effective for both training and operational use. The program is managed by the USMC Program Manager - Ammunition and is designed to be an ongoing effort, supporting the ammunition inventory for as long as the Marine Corps maintains these capabilities.

A key goal of the Ammo Modernization program is to support technical analysis and labor provided by Naval Surface Warfare Centers (NSWCs), including the Corona, Crane, Indian Head, and Dahlgren Divisions. These agencies deliver essential expertise in acquisition, systems assessment, service life analysis, testing and evaluation, technical drawing development, and malfunction investigations. Their work underpins the technical rigor required to modernize ammunition and maintain high standards of safety and performance throughout the ammunition lifecycle.

The program's objectives also include comprehensive quality assurance and cyclic testing activities. These efforts involve accelerated age testing, surveillance, and destructive testing to predict service life trends and identify potential malfunctions. By maintaining robust quality evaluation and assessment protocols, the program aims to assure the safety, reliability, and combat readiness of ammunition assets, directly supporting the warfighter and reducing operational risks.

Within the Ammo Modernization budget, several specific line items are addressed. Modernization of 40mm ammunition focuses on technical improvements and quality upgrades. Procurement and enhancement of rocket ammunition are supported to ensure these munitions meet evolving operational requirements. Modernization of line charge munitions is dedicated to improving capabilities for breaching and obstacle clearance missions.

The program also covers the procurement and improvement of ammunition components, such as fuzes and propellants, which are vital for overall performance and safety. Modernization of missile components supports the reliability and effectiveness of missile systems used by the Marine Corps. Quality evaluation activities include testing, assessment, and technical investigations necessary for lifecycle management.

Additional support elements are included in the budget to facilitate program execution. Internal support funds program office functional requirements such as travel, financial management, and cybersecurity expertise, which are necessary for effective oversight and sustainment of the ammunition stockpile. External support provides for annual procurement support from other Department of Defense services, particularly NSWC activities, including production engineering, logistics, quality assurance, and system safety. Expeditionary Systems Engineering Division support enables production-focused teams to ensure contract conformance, resolve technical issues, and collaborate across joint services for Class V(W) ammunition production.