Anniston Army Depot celebrates becoming site to upgrade howitzer combat vehicles

Officials at the Anniston Army depot Wednesday morning celebrated the facility becoming one of the main sites to upgrade the old M109A6 Paladins to M109A7 self-propelled howitzer combat vehicles. Officials say the initial $630 million, four-year contract will offer steady work for depot employees while providing safer, more efficient vehicles for soldiers in the field.

About 100 depot workers, members of the National Guard, dignitaries and representatives from private defense contractors attended the event. The celebration showcased several Paladins and their companion ammunition carriers, which the depot will help upgrade starting in November.

Depot workers will share the work with employees for defense industry contractor BAE Systems. Once complete, each upgraded vehicle will have a new chassis, engine, transmission, suspension, steering and improved durability.