Close Terrain Shaping Obstacle

The Close Terrain Shaping Obstacle (CTSO) program, as detailed in Army budget line item 0612E76740, is focused on the procurement and fielding of advanced terrain shaping munitions to address tactical obstacle capability gaps. The primary goal of this program is to provide the Army with a compliant, modern, and flexible obstacle system that supports both operational and training requirements. The program funds the acquisition of the XM343 Standoff Activated Volcano Obstacle (SAVO) and associated training devices, which are integral to Army modernization efforts and aligned with the National Defense Strategy.

The XM343 Standoff Activated Volcano Obstacle (SAVO) is designed to meet the operational needs of United States Army Europe (USAREUR), as identified in Operational Needs Statement 18-22702. The SAVO system enables remote initiation of Volcano mine canisters using a variety of fielded initiation systems, including the M7 Spider Networked Munition System, MK152/M156 Remote Activation Munition Systems (RAMS), CD450-4J Blasting Machine, and XM204 Interim Top Attack. The SAVO base plate, which is the core component, allows for flexible deployment and manual initiation. It is packaged with ancillary items such as initiation wire, ground stakes, sandbags, and carrying straps to facilitate rapid emplacement in the field.

In addition to tactical munitions, the program funds SAVO Full Task Trainers (FTT) and Partial Task Trainers (PTT). The FTT is designed to replicate the form, fit, function, and weight of the tactical SAVO base plate, providing realistic training experiences by simulating the sight and sound effects of mine launch and armed status. The PTT complements the FTT by enabling broader collective training at home stations and combat training centers. Both trainer types are packaged with the same ancillary components as the tactical system, ensuring consistency in training and operational deployment.

For FY 2026, the CTSO line item supports procurement activities that build war reserve inventories and enable annual training cycles. The budget supports the acquisition of SAVO Full Task Trainers, with additional funding allocated for trainers to meet Combatant Commander requirements and support Operation Atlantic Resolve. This procurement is justified by the need to deter potential adversaries and maintain readiness for homeland defense and military support to civil authorities, as mandated by Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act.

The program also includes funding for acceptance testing, contractor logistics support, new equipment training, production engineering, and government program management. Acceptance testing ensures that all procured items meet Army standards for safety and effectiveness, while contractor logistics support provides ongoing oversight and maintenance. New equipment training funds are used to educate soldiers on the operation and deployment of the SAVO system. Production engineering supports the refinement and manufacturing of the equipment, and program management resources are allocated to oversee the execution and integration of these activities within the Army's broader munitions procurement process.

Procurement under this line item is managed by the Army's acquisition agencies, with Northrop Grumman Defense Systems serving as the primary contractor for both tactical and training rounds. All procurement activities are conducted in accordance with DoD Instruction 3000.04 and Army Regulation 5-13, which govern the munitions requirements process and prioritization system. The program's objectives are closely tied to supporting OSD-approved Combatant Commander Operational Plans, homeland defense missions, and the Army's modernization priorities.