VEHICLE PROTECTION SYSTEMS (VPS)

VEHICLE PROTECTION SYSTEMS (VPS) aims to evaluate mature, and integrate active, reactive, and passive survivability capabilities onto multiple combat platforms within the Army. The program leverages Horizontal Technology Integration principles and the Army's Modular Active Protection Controller and Framework to develop tailored vehicle survivability sets that mitigate existing protection gaps, allow for future technology insertion to meet evolving threats, and minimize the impact on current capabilities hosted on Army ground system platforms. The specific objectives include the implementation of the VPS Base Kit with Laser Warning Receiver (LWR) to detect enemy military laser-aided threats and provide rapid warning of threat type and signal direction to the Modular Active Protection Controller. Additionally, the program focuses on Signature Management to reduce the infrared signature of ground combat vehicles, thereby reducing the probability of enemy detection from classified ranges and wave bands.

The program also includes Passive Protection against top attack/aerial threats and medium caliber/kinetic energy threats. Furthermore, the Expedited Active Protection System (ExAPS) program is executed under the Directed Requirement to Procure and Rapidly Field Non-Developmental Item Active Protection Systems in support of European Deterrence Initiative requirements. This involves platform integration, system/on-platform test activities, logistic product development, and Urgent Material Release documentation in support of rapid fielding activities. The program aims to pre-position Non-Developmental Item systems specifically selected for each platform around the world in support of current and future engagement requirements. Lastly, the Signature Management - Paint program focuses on vehicle-mounted detection systems that operate in specific wavelengths to address detection systems operating in infrared wavelengths.