155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Improvements

The 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Improvements program is focused on enhancing the effectiveness of self-propelled howitzers through various modernization efforts. The primary goals include increasing the range and rate of fire, as well as improving mobility, survivability, reliability, and supportability. This initiative involves analyzing and evaluating new cannon technologies and existing artillery systems to incorporate mature technologies that can enhance the platform's lethality. Additionally, the program aims to develop requirements, solicit vendor proposals, and assess vendor offerings to ensure the best technological solutions are integrated.

The PIM Improvement Program supports several key activities, including prototype development and testing. In fiscal year 2024, efforts will continue with developmental engineering for ERCA prototypes and preparations for Milestone C documentation. By fiscal year 2025, there will be a ramp-down in developmental activities as focus shifts towards supporting test site personnel and facilities for competitive vehicle evaluations. These evaluations are crucial for validating corrective actions and ensuring the systems meet operational requirements.

Moreover, program management is essential for coordinating these efforts, with resources allocated to generate necessary documentation and support engineering teams focused on range and rate of fire improvements. The test and evaluation component is also critical, with plans to conduct developmental testing that includes safety, mobility, reliability, and firing tests. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the self-propelled howitzer systems are thoroughly evaluated and improved upon.

The Division Lethality Modernization effort leverages competitive contracting mechanisms to test mature technologies from various vendors. This strategy aims to enhance the lethality of the U.S. Army's self-propelled howitzer systems by integrating advanced technologies that meet rigorous testing standards. Collaboration with facilities like Watervliet Arsenal further supports these objectives by providing necessary resources for development and evaluation processes.