XM231/XM232 Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS)
MACS is two different solid propellant charges which provide a complete zoning solution
for 155mm artillery applications by using multiples of a basic module. MACS is optimally
designed for Crusader, the next generation in field artillery, while maintaining backward
compatibility with currently fielded howitzer systems (i.e., M109A6 Paladin, M198 towed,
etc.). MACS has many benefits associated with replacing the currently fielded four-charge
system with its more advanced two-charge design. MACS consists of the XM231 propelling
charge and the XM232 propelling charge. The XM231 module is used at lower zones (1 or
2 increments at a time) while the XM232 module is used at higher zones (3, 4, 5, or 6
increments at a time). See a comparison of MACS zones to comparable zones of currently
fielded charges. Both the XM231 and XM232 are based on the classical Unicharge design,
i.e., bi-directional center core ignition, granular propellant contained in a rigid
combustible case, etc.; however, the XM231 and XM232 have design differences. All
XM231 modules are identical allowing them to be interchangeable (likewise with the
XM232). The design features allow MACS modules to be both manually and automatically
handled, and to meet future artillery needs.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/macs.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, September 12, 1998 6:35:55 AM