PPT Slide
In our quest to provide maximum flexibility to support the joint force, we must improve our systems ability to attack across the battlespace...from massed close supporting fires, to fires in support of dismounted and air assault operations, to operational fires at depth. The following are key development thrusts.
- An improved light force direct support weapon is essential - the M119A1 will reach the end of its service life around 2008-09. Experimentation, analysis, input from the field and the ICT, will determine the requirements. Future DS and GS cannons for light, early entry forces must be strategically deployable, and tactically mobile.
- By 2012 cannons in the heavy forces will be entirely a mix of Paladins and Crusaders. The Roadmap/ICT process will determine the post 2012 mix of heavy cannons.
- Cannon Munitions - SADARM will give us our first "fire and forget" cannon capability. It is the cannon smart munition of choice for the foreseeable future. The P3I version will expand its target set and improve lethality. SADARM and follow-on munitions are essential for Army 21 and the Army After Next.