Budget Account
2034A - Procurement of Ammunition, Army
Description
The Rocket, Hydra 70, All Types program is managed by the Aviation Rockets and Small Guided Munitions Product Office. It serves as the procurement agent for various military services and foreign military customers. This initiative focuses on acquiring aviation rockets and small guided munitions to support the Army's operational, training, and war reserve needs. The program aims to ensure combat readiness by providing munitions that enhance combat capabilities across different platforms used by the Army, Navy, Air Force, Special Operations, and allied forces.
The primary goal of the Hydra 70 program is to maintain a robust supply of both unguided and guided rocket systems. Unguided rockets are utilized for roles such as anti-materiel, anti-personnel, air-to-ground suppression, and illumination. In contrast, guided systems offer increased accuracy for precision strikes against lightly armored targets. This distinction allows for adherence to restricted engagement rules while enhancing operational effectiveness.
Key objectives include addressing obsolescence issues, ensuring safety and reliability, integrating weapons systems effectively, and managing production challenges. The program also focuses on testing guidance sections and procuring repair kits to maintain system functionality. Additionally, it supports engineering changes and lifetime buys of obsolete components to sustain long-term operational capability.
For FY 2025, resources are allocated towards government management and production engineering efforts necessary to support previous deliveries and ongoing hardware production. This includes performance testing and acceptance activities essential for maintaining quality assurance across all procured munitions. The strategy also incorporates Overseas Operations Costs to address requirements previously covered under Overseas Contingency Operations funding.