Family Anti-Armor Weapon Systems (FOAAWS)

The Anti-Armor Missile-TOW program, as outlined in Line Item 3017 of the Department of Defense budget, is a key procurement initiative for the United States Marine Corps under the Navy's budget authority. The primary goal of this program is to provide Marine Corps Infantry and Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions with a modern, long-range, and highly lethal anti-armor precision assault capability. The system at the core of this program is the M41A7 Saber weapon system, which replaces the older M220 TOW 2 system and is designed to operate effectively in contemporary and future operational environments.

The M41A7 Saber Weapon System is engineered to deliver advanced targeting and engagement capabilities. It incorporates GPS-based location detection and an altitude determination subsystem, which together generate precise 10-digit grid coordinates for targets. This enables superior surveillance and target identification at extended ranges, allowing warfighters to engage threats with TOW missiles or other compatible weapon systems.

The system is versatile, being mountable on a range of platforms including the Joint Lightweight Tactical Vehicle, High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle, and the Light Armored Vehicle - Anti-Tank, as well as being deployable in ground-mounted configurations.

The TOW Missile (BGM-71 Series) is the primary munition for the M41A7 system. The program's objective is to procure and sustain a highly lethal, cost-effective, and interoperable anti-armor missile that can be used in both direct-fire and fly-over, shoot-down modes. The TOW missile is capable of defeating armored vehicles, bunkers, and fortified structures at extended ranges and in all battlefield conditions.

The procurement quantities and requirements are based on the Total Munitions Requirement published in January 2024, ensuring alignment with current and projected operational needs.

The funding request for this line item supports a range of activities essential to the program's objectives. This includes training requirements, engineering support in production, logistical and program management support, configuration management, and both First Article and Lot Acceptance Testing. Additionally, the funding addresses ongoing support for items in production or post-production delivery, as well as any necessary changes to the form, fit, and function of the system's design.

A significant focus is placed on refurbishing and retrofitting missiles to extend their service life and to address obsolescence and safety concerns. Program management and engineering support components are critical to maintaining the quality and reliability of the Saber system and TOW missiles. These efforts include addressing any manufacturing issues, ensuring compliance with evolving safety standards, and managing configuration changes that may arise due to technological advancements or operational feedback.

The increase in funding from FY 2025 to FY 2026 is attributed to inflation and the need to support increased deliveries and programmatic activities. The joint management structure of the program is also noteworthy. The U.S. Army Program Executive Office Missiles and Space (PEO MS), specifically the Tactical Aviation & Ground Munitions TOW Product Office, serves as the lead for this joint program with the Marine Corps.

Raytheon, located in Tucson, AZ, is the sole qualified and facilitized industry source for TOW missile production, operating under a Fixed Price Incentive Firm Target contract administered by the Army's Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM).