The Modification Of In-Service Equipment (OPA-3) program is a key Army initiative under the Other Procurement, Army appropriation, focusing on the modernization and sustainment of a diverse portfolio of support equipment. The primary goal of this line item is to extend the useful life, improve operational readiness, and ensure compliance with evolving statutory, regulatory, and safety requirements for existing Army equipment. By funding targeted modifications rather than procuring new systems, the program achieves cost-effective modernization, addresses obsolescence, and maintains a ready and supportable inventory aligned with current mission demands.
Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Technical Insertion is a significant component of the FY 2026 effort, with funding allocated to modernize Rough Terrain Container Handlers (RTCHs). Managed by PdM Engineer, Maintenance & Support Equipment (EMSE), these upgrades are designed to decrease sustainment costs, bridge capability gaps until future system procurement, and support logistics operations such as port openings, container handling, and movement of supplies and artillery. The program also funds RTCH Special Tools Kits to meet Field Level Maintenance requirements for the legacy fleet, ensuring continued operational effectiveness in support of the National Defense Strategy.
Army Watercraft Systems (AWS) Modifications support pier side and shipyard modifications across the watercraft fleet. These funds address outstanding and emerging Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and Modification Work Orders (MWOs), regaining fleet configuration control, correcting safety and regulatory deficiencies, and ensuring compliance with federal mandates and Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requirements. The program also supports the integration of autonomy kits, survivability upgrades, and escalation of force capabilities. Program management and logistics oversight are provided to maintain readiness and operational capability for dynamic force repositioning and maneuver operations in austere environments.
M139 Volcano Mine Dispensing System modifications enable upgrades to Volcano systems to address identified shortages and initiate technical efforts to resolve Air Mounting Kit data deficiencies. These modifications, managed by JPEO Armaments & Ammunition, are essential for maintaining the Army's capability to deliver scatterable mines from ground vehicles and aircraft, directly supporting combat engineering and mobility operations.
Mine Clearing Line Charge (MICLIC) receives funding for modifications and refurbishment of systems, addressing readiness issues in the aging fleet. Managed by JPEO Armaments & Ammunition, this effort integrates refurbished launchers and trailers into full MICLIC capability. These upgrades ensure the Army can breach minefields and obstacles to maintain maneuverability and support joint force operations.
Army Watercraft Systems Installation under MA4502 funds the completion of pier side and shipyard modifications, installation of autonomy kits, and application of ECPs/MWOs. This supports configuration control, safety compliance, and operational enhancements, with program management and logistics oversight ensuring effective implementation. The installation efforts are critical for maintaining vessel safety, integrating new equipment, and supporting the Army Watercraft Transformation Strategy.