CTG, 20mm, All Types

The CTG, 20mm, All Types program is a key line item in the Army's FY 2026 ammunition procurement budget, supporting both operational and training requirements for the Land Based Phalanx Weapon System (LPWS). This system is primarily used for Counter-Rocket, Artillery, and Mortar (C-RAM) missions, providing force protection against airborne threats. The line item encompasses multiple cartridge types, notably the M940 Multi-Purpose Tracer - Self-Destruct (MPT-SD) and the M55A2 Target Practice (TP) Cartridge, each serving distinct roles within Army operations.

The M940 Multi-Purpose Tracer - Self-Destruct (MPT-SD) is a high-explosive, pyrotechnically initiated 20mm cartridge designed for combat use. Its tungsten penetrator tip and heavy-walled steel body, charged with explosive and incendiary mixes, are engineered to pierce and neutralize incoming threats. The self-destruct feature minimizes collateral damage by ensuring the projectile detonates if it misses its target. Procurement of M940 cartridges is intended to build war reserve inventories in line with Army Title 10 requirements and operational plans. This munition is classified as service-ready and supports both homeland defense and overseas contingency operations.

The M55A2 Target Practice (TP) Cartridge is a training round ballistically matched to the tactical M56 High Explosive Incendiary cartridge. It enables realistic training on the M61 cannon within the LPWS, allowing soldiers to practice with a round that simulates actual combat munitions. Procurement of M55A2 cartridges supports individual and collective training at Army schools, home stations, and combined training centers. This ensures readiness for both active and reserve components, aligning with requirements under DoD Instruction 3000.04 and AR 5-13.

Procurement and production are managed through contracts with major defense contractors such as Northrop Grumman Systems Corp (Plymouth, MN) and General Dynamics Ordnance & Tactical Systems (Marion, IL), with Rock Island Arsenal, IL serving as the contracting office. The production process includes load, assemble, and pack (LAP) operations, as well as the provision of metal storage boxes (M548). Manufacturing lead times are typically 6 to 18 months, with production rates reaching up to 270,000 cartridges per month, ensuring timely delivery to meet operational and training needs.

Quality assurance, production engineering, and product improvement activities are integral to the program, with dedicated funding for these support elements. These efforts ensure that all procured ammunition meets stringent safety and performance standards throughout its lifecycle. The program also incorporates economic price adjustments and competitive contract execution between vendors, optimizing cost efficiency and supply reliability.

The justification for the CTG, 20mm, All Types line item centers on its critical role in maintaining Army war reserves, supporting homeland defense, and enabling effective training. By procuring both combat-ready and training-specific cartridges, the Army ensures that its personnel and equipment are prepared for current and future missions. This approach supports the Army's commitment to sustaining operational readiness and munitions quality for both immediate and long-term requirements.