Budget Account
2035A - Other Procurement, Army
Budget Activity
03 - Other support equipment
Description
The Modification Of In-Service Equipment (OPA-3) program, managed by the Army, aims to enhance operational readiness and extend the service life of existing military equipment. This initiative involves modifications and upgrades across various equipment categories, including Material Handling Equipment (MHE), Construction Equipment (CE), and Army Watercraft Systems. The primary objectives are to address safety deficiencies, improve mission capabilities, and ensure compliance with evolving statutory and regulatory requirements. By upgrading existing systems, the program seeks to maintain a cost-effective and supportable inventory that meets current operational needs.
Within the Material Handling Equipment category, the program focuses on technical insertions for systems such as the Rough Terrain Container Handler (RTCH) and Light Capability Rough Terrain Forklift (LCRTF). These enhancements include new control units and special tool kits designed to reduce sustainment costs and bridge capability gaps until new systems are procured.
Similarly, the Construction Equipment modifications aim to modernize legacy systems like dozers and graders to support airfield construction and maintenance tasks. This modernization enhances force mobility and infrastructure protection.
The Army Watercraft Systems component addresses critical updates needed for fleet configuration control and operational readiness. This includes implementing Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and Modification Work Orders (MWOs) to rectify safety issues, comply with environmental mandates, and improve survivability against threats. Additionally, efforts are made to upgrade communication systems within watercraft to ensure interoperability with other military assets.
The Modification Of In-Service Equipment program is integral to sustaining the Army's operational capabilities by ensuring that existing equipment remains effective, safe, and compliant with modern standards. Through targeted investments in modifications and upgrades, the program supports the broader National Defense Strategy by enhancing force readiness while managing costs efficiently.