Common Ground Equipment

The Common Ground Equipment program, as presented in Army budget line item 5212AZ3100, is a key component of the Army's Aircraft Procurement appropriation, specifically under Support Equipment and Facilities. The primary goal of this program is to develop, procure, and modernize aviation ground support equipment (AGSE) that enables effective maintenance and operational readiness for the Army's rotary wing aircraft fleet, including both legacy platforms and the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA). The AGSE Product Office is responsible for delivering a portfolio of 24 products, encompassing 45 line item numbers. These collectively support the Army's ability to rapidly deploy, sustain, and operate aviation assets in multi-domain environments.

A major objective for FY 2026 is the procurement of the Aviation Ground Power Unit (AGPU) 1.1 systems. The Army Requirement Oversight Committee (AROC) has approved an Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) of 157 AGPU 1.1 units to address a critical capability gap in maintenance and operations for the CH-47 and AH-64 helicopter fleets. The AGPU 1.1 is designed to provide advanced aircraft diagnostic, repair, and servicing capabilities, which are essential for supporting both current and future rotary wing aircraft. The FY 2026 base procurement request reflects a targeted investment in sustaining aviation readiness and supporting the Army Transformation Initiative.

In addition to the AGPU 1.1, the Common Ground Equipment line item includes legacy systems such as the Aviation Ground Power Unit 1.0 (AGPU 1.0), which has previously supported the enduring fleet with thousands of units procured. While new procurement for AGPU 1.0 is not planned for FY 2026, its continued relevance underscores the importance of maintaining and upgrading ground support capabilities as aircraft platforms evolve. Other notable products in the AGSE portfolio include the Aviation Light Utility Mobile Maintenance units, Modernized Maintenance Stands, and the Common Aviation Tool System. Each is designed to facilitate efficient and safe aircraft servicing in both garrison and expeditionary settings.

The program also invests in specialized diagnostic and recovery equipment, such as the Flexible Engine Diagnostics System, SCAMP II Expeditionary Type 2, Unit Maintenance Aerial Recovery Kit, and Non-Destructive Test Equipment. These systems are critical for identifying and addressing maintenance issues quickly, minimizing aircraft downtime, and enhancing operational safety. The Pitot Static Test Set and Tool Set, Aviation Unit Maintenance further support routine and specialized maintenance tasks, ensuring that Army aviation units have the tools required for effective fleet management.

From a program management perspective, the AGSE Product Office coordinates government management and oversight activities to ensure timely delivery and integration of ground support equipment. The FY 2026 request reflects a reduction for Advisory and Assistance Services, in alignment with Executive Order 14222 and the Administration's cost efficiency initiatives. This adjustment demonstrates a commitment to promoting efficiencies and advancing government-wide policies for improved resource utilization.

Justification for the Common Ground Equipment program is rooted in its support for both active and reserve components of the Armed Forces, addressing requirements for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, as mandated by section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. Continued investment in AGSE is essential for maintaining the Army's aviation readiness posture, supporting the National Defense Strategy, and enabling rapid, sustained operations across diverse operational environments.