Tractor, Full Tracked

The Tractor, Full Tracked program, as detailed in Army Budget Line Item 4700M05800, is focused on the procurement and modernization of tracked dozers and related construction equipment to support a wide range of military engineering operations. The primary goal of this program is to ensure that Army Combat Engineer, Quartermaster, Transportation, and Construction units possess the necessary capabilities to construct, maintain, and repair critical infrastructure in support of military operations. This includes breaching operations, port opening, and the emplacement of bridging systems for both wet and dry gap crossings, which are essential for operational mobility and maneuverability.

The program specifically emphasizes the acquisition of the T-9 Medium Dozer Type I with winch, with an Army Acquisition Objective (AAO) of 939 units. These dozers are designed to provide enhanced operator armor protection and are equipped for future technology insertion, enabling autonomous operations. Their capabilities include obstacle creation, terrain shaping, and the repair of lines of communication, all of which contribute to increased deployability and sustainability of Army forces. The procurement of these dozers supports both combat and support units, ensuring readiness across a spectrum of operational scenarios.

Another key component is the T-9 Medium Dozer Type II with ripper, with an AAO of 772 units. These dozers are tailored for Engineer and Vertical Construction Companies, enabling them to perform horizontal and vertical construction tasks critical to infrastructure establishment and maintenance. Like the Type I variant, the Type II dozers feature technology inserts for future semi or fully autonomous operation, armor protection, and robust engineering capabilities. Their deployment is integral to the Army's Cross Functional Teams in the Shoot, Communicate & Sustain phase, supporting rapid mobility and infrastructure resilience.

The program also includes procurement of T-5 Light Dozers, both Type I with winch (AAO 145) and Type II with ripper (AAO 159). These lighter platforms are intended for Engineer Support Companies, Stryker Brigade Combat Teams, and Armored Brigade Combat Teams. Their primary objective is to facilitate rapid airfield repair and construction of military facilities, with capabilities such as clearing, grading, obstacle reduction, and towing. These dozers enhance the Army's ability to quickly establish and maintain operational infrastructure in diverse environments, supporting both general engineering and combat support tasks.

In addition to physical equipment, the Medium Dozer Construction Equipment Virtual Trainers (CEVT) are a significant aspect of the program, with an AAO of 33 units. These simulators, developed in alignment with the National Defense Strategy, utilize commercial off-the-shelf technology modified for military-specific training. CEVT enables the United States Army Engineer School to train soldiers in Engineer Military Occupational Skills (MOS) efficiently, reducing wear and maintenance costs on actual equipment and allowing for training in scenarios that would be too risky in real-world conditions. This approach increases operator proficiency and supports innovative training methodologies.

Beginning in FY 2025, the Tractor, Full Tracked line item is consolidated into the broader Construction Equipment (R02700) program, which also includes High Mobility Engineer Excavators, All Terrain Cranes, and other construction platforms. This consolidation aims to streamline procurement and support across active and reserve Army components. It is designed to enhance readiness for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, as mandated by section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act.