Other Missile Product Improvement Programs

The Other Missile Product Improvement Programs (PE 0203802A) is a Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative managed by the U.S. Army under Budget Activity 7: Operational Systems Development. The primary goal of this program element is to enhance the effectiveness, reliability, and survivability of Army missile systems, with a particular focus on the Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) Weapon System. This program supports the modernization of missile capabilities for Army Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCT), Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCT), and Armor Brigade Combat Teams (ABCT), as well as the United States Marine Corps (USMC).

VV2: TOW is the principal line item within this program element. The TOW Weapon System includes the Improved Target Acquisition System (ITAS), various TOW missile launchers, the BGM-71 missile series, and associated training aids. The objectives of the TOW improvement program are to integrate modifications that improve missile safety and reliability, increase system survivability and lethality, and enhance network capabilities. These upgrades are designed to support Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) and Joint All Domain Operations (JADO), enabling precise, lethal capabilities against armored threats in diverse operational environments.

TOW Missile Obsolescence Mitigation and System Improvements is a key subprogram focused on addressing aging components and integrating new technologies. Funds are allocated for the development and qualification of new components, such as the Radio Frequency Data-Link (RF DL), Missile Computer (MC), and Short Wave Infra-Red (SWIR) tracking beacon. These components are intended to be incorporated into production through Engineering Change Proposals upon successful qualification. The program aims to finalize design engineering, complete build and testing at component and system levels, and ensure hardware readiness for tactical integration.

Integration and Counter Measure/Threat Management is another subprogram within VV2: TOW, dedicated to preparing and performing technical assessments, threat analyses, concept studies, demonstrations, tests, and risk mitigation efforts. The goal is to address current and emerging threats by completing technical assessments and testing missiles against various targets. This ensures that the TOW system remains effective against evolving adversary capabilities and maintains its relevance in future combat scenarios.

Containerized Weapon System APKWS (CWS-A) is designed to defeat Group II through III Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) threats and provides a networked sensor-to-shooter interface. This system enables multiple stations to be remotely controlled by a single operator from a protected location, increasing situational awareness and security for command posts and other critical assets. The integration with the FAADC2 sensor system and subsequent flight demonstrations and operational assessments are planned to validate the capability and operational effectiveness of CWS-A.

The acquisition strategy for the TOW Weapon System leverages in-house expertise, other government agencies, defense industry partners, and, when appropriate, Other Transaction Authority (OTA). This approach enables rapid response to urgent operational needs and the incorporation of new technologies. For CWS-A, the strategy involves collaboration with other government agencies and the prime contractor to conduct engineering and operational assessments. These strategies are designed to maintain system effectiveness and readiness for emerging requirements.