Machine Gun Ammunition

The LI 0155 - Machine Gun Ammunition program is a Navy budget line item dedicated to the procurement of 20MM and 25MM ammunition for various aircraft gun systems. The primary objective of this program is to ensure the availability of sufficient quantities of training and combat-ready ammunition to support the operational requirements of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, including the F/A-18, AH-1Z, MH-60, AV-8B, and F-35B/C platforms.

The program is managed by the Joint Munitions Command (JMC) at Rock Island, Illinois, which oversees contracting, production, and delivery schedules for all ammunition types included in this line. It focuses on three main categories of ammunition: Target Practice (TP), High Explosive Incendiary (HEI), and inert rounds. TP and inert rounds are primarily used for training and qualification of aircrews, ensuring readiness and proficiency in weapons employment. HEI rounds, including Semi Armor Piercing High Explosive Incendiary (SAPHEI), are procured for both training and operational use, providing the necessary capability for combat missions. Procurement quantities are determined based on inventory requirements, historical expenditure data, and projected operational needs.

20MM Linkless TP Ammunition is a significant component of the program, supporting the M61A1/A2 gun systems on F/A-18 aircraft and the M197 Linkless Feed Gun System on AH-1Z helicopters. The FY 2026 request includes an increase in procurement quantity to maintain inventory baselines and support additional F/A-18 deployments. The program must meet a minimum buy requirement annually to sustain production efficiency and avoid increased unit costs. If funding is reduced, procurement quantities would fall below the minimum threshold, impacting training and readiness.

25MM Linkless TP Ammunition is procured to support the GAU-12 gun system on AV-8B aircraft and the GAU-22 system on F-35B/C platforms. The FY 2026 budget reflects a notable increase in 25MM TP procurement, driven by the establishment of new Marine Corps Training and Readiness requirements for Joint Strike Fighter F-35B/C deployments. This investment ensures that aircrews receive pre-combat certification and meet fleet training standards prior to operational deployment.

In addition to hardware procurement, the program funds integrated logistics support, production engineering, and product improvement initiatives. These support activities are essential for maintaining the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of ammunition stocks. Product improvement efforts address evolving technical standards and operational feedback, while logistics support ensures timely delivery, inventory management, and sustainment of ammunition throughout its lifecycle.

The program also incorporates cost efficiency measures in line with Executive Order 14222, which directs the Department of Defense to promote government-wide efficiencies. For FY 2026, a minor reduction in advisory and assistance services funding was implemented to advance these policies. Contracting is conducted primarily with General Dynamics OTS/ATK at Marion, IL, and Lake City, MO, using firm-fixed-price contracts to ensure cost predictability and timely delivery.

The LI 0155 - Machine Gun Ammunition budget line is structured to balance readiness, training, and operational requirements with cost efficiency and production sustainability. By maintaining adequate inventories of TP, HEI, and inert ammunition, the Navy and Marine Corps can ensure their aircrews are properly trained and equipped for both peacetime and combat operations. The program's objectives are closely aligned with fleet deployment schedules, training standards, and ongoing modernization efforts for aircraft weapons systems.