Grnd Standoff Mine Detectn Sysm (GSTAMIDS)

The Ground Standoff Mine Detection System (GSTAMIDS) program is a key line item in the Army's Other Procurement budget, specifically under Engineer (Non-Construction) Equipment. The primary objective of GSTAMIDS is to enhance the Army's capability to detect, mark, and neutralize landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) using ground vehicle-mounted or towed systems. This program directly supports Area Access (A2) operations, which are critical for unified land operations and improving soldier survivability in environments threatened by explosive hazards.

The GSTAMIDS line item encompasses several sub-programs, each with specific goals. Explosive Hazard Pre-Detonation (EHP) provides a suite of capabilities including a Roller System for Medium Mine Protected Vehicles Type II, a Debris Blower for Buffalo Mine Protected Clearance Vehicles, and a Wire Neutralization System for Husky-based Vehicle Mounted Mine Detection systems. The EHP's objective is to enhance route clearance operations by detecting, neutralizing, and surviving encounters with a wide range of explosive threats, such as landmines, IEDs, unexploded ordnance, and battlefield munitions. The Army Acquisition Objectives (AAO) for these systems are established for each capability to meet operational requirements.

Another critical component is the Mine Clearing Vehicle (MCV) program, which focuses on the procurement of the M1271 Mine Clearing Vehicle. The MCV is a commercially available, blast-protected, mechanical flail vehicle designed to clear large areas of anti-tank and anti-personnel landmines. Its flail head can be adjusted for depth, allowing for effective clearance of various types of mines. The AAO for the MCV reflects the Army's targeted requirement for this capability.

The Route Clearance Virtual Clearance Training Suite (VCTS) is another element under the GSTAMIDS line. The VCTS provides soldiers at multiple sites with the ability to conduct virtual training on Route Clearance vehicles, EHP, and MCV systems. The primary goal of this program is to ensure that soldiers are proficient in operating mine detection and clearance equipment before deploying to operational environments, thereby increasing mission effectiveness and reducing risk.

The Vehicle Optics Sensor System (VOSS) is designed to further enhance detection capabilities. VOSS is a telescoping, gyro-stabilized, high-resolution, triple sensor surveillance system that includes a day camera, an image intensifying night vision sensor, and an infrared sensor. Mounted on Medium Mine Protected Vehicles within Route Clearance Platoons and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) companies, VOSS enables optical detection of explosive hazards and their trigger sources from standoff distances, improving both detection rates and operator safety.

The management and acquisition strategy for GSTAMIDS is overseen by PM Ground Sensors. The approach involves harvesting Quick Reaction Capability (QRC) systems and refreshing them into the Program of Record (POR), with refurbishment and upgrades conducted at Tobyhanna Army Depot. This strategy ensures that fielded systems remain current with technological advancements and operational requirements, while also leveraging existing investments in QRC assets.