Armored Systems Modernization (ASM) - Eng Dev

The Armored Systems Modernization (ASM) - Engineering Development program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0604645A, is a key Army initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of advanced armored vehicle capabilities. The primary objective of this program has been to address capability gaps in Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs) by providing a mobile, protected, and precise direct-fire platform capable of defeating enemy positions and armored vehicles. The core system developed under this program is the M10 Booker, formerly known as the Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) vehicle.

EV8: Mobile Protected Firepower (M10 Booker) is the central project within this line item. Its goal was to deliver a lightweight, highly mobile armored vehicle that could provide IBCTs with the firepower and protection necessary for both offensive and defensive operations. The M10 Booker was designed to ensure freedom of maneuver for IBCTs, allowing them to close with and defeat enemy forces in a variety of operational environments. The program included the development of logistics products, technical manuals, training materials, and the refinement of maintenance requirements to support fielding and sustainment.

A significant portion of the program's objectives involved rigorous Government Test and Evaluation. This included both performance testing such as survivability, lethality, reliability, maintainability, electromagnetic compatibility, environmental performance, and cybersecurity and operational testing, including Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) at multiple Army test centers. These efforts were intended to validate that the M10 Booker met all required specifications and was operationally effective for Army use.

Another key objective was the Product Development and Contractor Technical Support during the Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) phase. This included updating prototype vehicles to the LRIP configuration, supporting government testing, analyzing and correcting test incidents, and implementing design changes based on soldier feedback and test results. The program also invested in developing training aids and devices, such as the Gunnery Training System and maintenance trainers, to ensure that soldiers could effectively operate and maintain the new platform.

In FY 2026, the program's focus shifted due to the Army Transformation Initiative (ATI) EXORD, which directed the cessation of M10 Booker procurement and the inactivation of all related battalions. As a result, remaining RDT&E funds are allocated primarily to contract close-out activities and are being realigned to other Army transformation priorities. This transition marks the conclusion of active development and testing efforts for the M10 Booker under this program element.

The Acquisition Strategy for the M10 Booker involved a competitive process under the Middle Tier Acquisition (Rapid Prototyping) authority, with contracts awarded to both BAE Systems and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS). Following successful prototyping and testing, GDLS was selected for LRIP contracts. The program's milestones included multiple phases of prototype delivery, testing, and iterative design refinement, culminating in the decision to halt further procurement as Army priorities evolved.