explosive components, not their fusing

mechanisms. Modeling shows that it neu-

tralizes more than 95 percent of the anti-
tank mines that fall beneath the explosive
array.
The Mongoose will support both the
medium force and heavy force with a net
size (length x width) tailored to counter
likely enemy threats. The smaller, lighter
medium force variant will be towed by the
engineer squads interim armored vehicle.
The heavy force version of the Mongoose
will be towed either by the engineer
squads M113 or another armored task
force vehicle.
FI ELD ARTI LLERY AND
MORTAR SYSTEMS
Rockets/Missiles
The Multiple-Launch Rocket System
(MLRS) is a highly mobile, automated sys-
tem that fires surface-to-surface rockets
and missiles from the M270 platform. The
MLRS delivers large volumes of firepower
in a short time against critical, time-sensi-
tive targets. From inside the cab, the crew
of three can fire up to 12 MLRS rockets.
The basic rocket warhead carries dual-pur-
pose, improved conventional munition
(DPICM) submunitions. The MLRS, how-
ever, is capable of supporting and deliver-
ing all of the MLRS family of munitions
(MFOM), including the Army tactical mis-
sile system (ATACMS) variants. Growth
programs are under way to extend the
range and accuracy of rockets and missiles
and to upgrade the launcher fire-control
and mechanical systems.
The U.S. initial operational capability
for the MLRS was achieved in 1983. Start-
ing in FY 1989, the MLRS has been copro-
duced by the United States, Germany,
France, Italy and the United Kingdom.
Two parallel enhancement programs have
been directed toward the M270 tracked
MLRS launcher: the M270 improved posi-
tion determining system (IPDS) and the
M270A1 upgrade.
The M270 IPDS program was an interim
upgrade applied to a select number of
launchers to provide the ability to fire the
longer-range GPS-aided ATACMS Block
IA, quick-reaction unitary and Block II
missiles until sufficient M270A1 launchers
are fielded. The modification kit features
the IPDS line replaceable unit (LRU) with
an embedded GPS receiver. The new LRU
replaces the improved stabilization refer-
ence package/position-determining sys-
tem (ISRP/PDS) LRU found in the current
M270 launchers. Other components of the
IPDS modification include a 4-megabyte
electronics unit (twice the M270s capac-
ity); GPS antenna, data transfer device and
associated cables; expanded hoist bumpers
for ATACMS Block IA missile pod hang
angles; and additional training and main-
tenance equipment.
Lockheed Martin is under contract and
has incorporated two new upgrades to the
current MLRS system. The new M270A1
launcher appears identical to existing
M270s while incorporating an improved
fire-control system (IFCS) and an improved
launcher mechanical system (ILMS).
The IFCS allows for more sophisticated
munitions and reduces operating costs.
The IFCS upgrade includes a new fire-con-
trol panel with video, a full keyboard, a
gigabyte of program storage and GPS nav-
igation. With distributed multiprocessor
technology, the IFCS is able to process
large blocks of data from new smart muni-
tions within tactical time lines. Operating
and maintenance costs are reduced by 38
percent because of the greater reliability
and ease of repair on IFCS parts. The new
system meets requirements for the first
digitized corps and allows for future
growth, being capable of firing future mu-
nitions and having a greater capacity to ex-
pand situational awareness.
The ILMS dramatically reduces the time
needed to aim and reload the launcher. In
a typical fire mission, the ILMS-equipped
launcher is six times faster than the current
M270 launcher.
Crew and launcher survivability are
greatly enhanced by decreasing total expo-
sure time on the battlefield. The new sys-
tem reduces operations and support (O&S)
costs by 38 percent while incorporating
state-of-the-art electronics and embedded
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global positioning and inertial navigation
systems.
Procurement of the M270A1 began in
1999. The entire MLRS family of muni-
tions, including the MLRS M26 rocket, ex-
tended-range rocket, reduced-range prac-
tice rocket, guided MLRS rockets, AT-
ACMS Block I, ATACMS Block IA, AT-
ACMS Block II and ATACMS quick-reac-
tion unitary have been successfully fired
from the M270A1.
With more than 12,000 rockets and 450
ATACMS fired in combat, the system has
been proven a success. The system was
highly effective and reliable during com-
bat operations associated with Operation
Iraqi Freedom (OIF).
The High-Mobility Artillery Rocket
System (HIMARS) is the newest launcher
variant of the multiple-launch rocket sys-
tem family. HIMARS is a highly mobile ar-
tillery rocket system offering MLRS fire-
power on a wheeled chassis and is C-130
transportable.
HIMARS carries a single six-pack of
MLRS rockets, or one Army tactical missile
system (ATACMS) missile, on the Armys
new family of medium tactical vehicles
(FMTV) 5-ton truck. HIMARS is designed
to launch the entire MLRS family of muni-
tions. HIMARS was part of the rapid force
projection initiative, an advanced concept
technology demonstration (ACTD) pro-
gram. Four prototypes were built by Lock-
heed Martin Missiles and Fire Control,
with three vehicles delivered to the XVIII
Airborne Corps for a two-year evaluation.
The retention period was later extended
by Headquarters, Department of the Army
(HQDA), until that corps was equipped
with the first production design launchers.
In May 1998, HIMARS successfully fired
the first MLRS rockets from a prototype
launcher at White Sands Missile Range,
N.M. This was the first in a firing program
that included both rockets and Army
TACMS Blocks I and IA missiles. A pla-
toon of HIMARS ACTD prototypes were
successfully used during OIF, exclusively
firing ATACMS missiles in support of
ground forces.
In 2000, the U.S. Marine Corps joined
the HIMARS program. The Marine Corps
is conducting a technology demonstration
to evaluate the system with the objective
of fully incorporating HIMARS into the
Corps. The Marine Corps is planning to
equip two battalions with HIMARS.
The Army Tactical Missile System (AT-
ACMS) Blocks I and IA provide long-
range, surface-to-surface fire support for
Army corps and division operations. Both
ATACMS Blocks I and IA are surface-to-
surface guided missile systems with an an-
tipersonnel/antimateriel (APAM) war-
head. The ATACMS with an APAM war-
head attacks soft area targets at ranges
well beyond the capability of existing can-
nons and rockets. Targets include surface-
to-surface missile and multiple rocket
launcher units; air defense systems; logis-
tics elements; and command, control and
communications complexes.
The M270 MLRS launcher is capable of
firing ATACMS Block I missiles to engage
targets at ranges out to 165 kilometers. The
Block I was used in combat action in
October 2005 I ARMY 327
High-mobility artillery
rocket system (HIMARS).
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Southwest Asia during Operation Desert
Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom and
effectively destroyed high-priority targets.
The contractor completed deliveries of the
Block I missile in 1997.
The ATACMS Block IA, with enhanced
accuracy enabled by GPS augmentation to
its inertial guidance capability, has a 300-
kilometer reach. Block IAbegan fielding in
FY 1998, and retrofit of selected launchers
to Block IA capability occurred simultane-
ously with missile fielding. Fired from
M270A1 and HIMARS prototype launch-
ers, its employment was highly effective in
OIF.
The ATACMS Unitary Missile is a U.S.
Army requirement developed as a result of
lessons learned in Kosovo. It was clear that
battlefield commanders needed a weapon
with precise guidance and lower lethal
radii to minimize collateral damage. Fu-
ture military operations will require the
need for precision attacks on critical point
targets, including those in urban environ-
ments or restrictive terrain, under all
weather conditions while minimizing col-
lateral damage.
The Army TACMS Quick-Reaction Uni-
tary (QRU) Missile is a responsive all-
weather, long-range missile with a high-
explosive, single-burst warhead fired from
the multiple-launch rocket system family
of launchers. The ATACMS QRU is con-
verted to the unitary configuration by re-
placing the antipersonnel/antimateriel
(APAM) submunitions in Block IAmissiles
and integrating a proven government-fur-
nished unitary warhead (470-pound SLAM/
HARPOON) and fuse into the warhead
section. The missile has a range of 270 kilo-
meters and provides the Army the interim
capability to attack high-payoff, time-sen-
sitive targets without placing combat or
support aircraft and crews at risk. Its preci-
sion accuracy, the absence of potential sub-
munition duds and reduced lethal radii
overcome collateral damage concerns.
First delivery of an Army TACMS QRU
was completed within four months of con-
tract award, and the flight test was suc-
cessfully conducted in April 2001 at White
Sands Missile Range, N.M. The Army
TACMS unitary missile was launched
from an MLRS IPDS launcher and flew 139
kilometers to the target impact site. The
target array was constructed to obtain a
qualitative measurement of the warhead
effects via indicators placed in the impact
area. The results of the flight test indicate
that the warhead effects were fairly con-
centrated, dissipating within 100 meters of
the impact area with no duds or unex-
ploded ordnance.
The Army TACMS quick-reaction uni-
tary (QRU) was used in OIF and was
highly effective in destroying high-payoff
targets at the outset of the operation. Addi-
tional missiles are being procured.
The ATACMS Penetrator Program is an
advanced concept technology demonstra-
tion (ACTD) that uses the ATACMS Block
IA motor and guidance and control, and
incorporates a U.S. Navy separating pene-
trator warhead. Testing will be followed
by fielding of program residuals to a major
command.
The Extended-Range Multiple-Launch
Rocket System (ER-MLRS) provides
longer-range rocket capability. The pro-
gram emerged from lessons learned dur-
ing Operation Desert Storm, in which se-
nior-level commanders, while applauding
the effectiveness of the basic rocket, stated
a requirement for greater range. The ER-
MLRS is a free-flight, area-fire, artillery
rocket designed to enhance the capabilities
of the MLRS.
The ER-MLRS extends the 31.8-kilome-
ter range of the basic rocket to approxi-
mately 45 kilometers. The extended-range
variant has the same diameter and length
as the basic rocket, but it has been modi-
fied to include a lengthened motor and a
shorter warhead section with fewer dual-
purpose improved conventional munition
(DPICM) grenades. The launch pod for the
ER-MLRS incorporates a new no-load de-
tent (soft launch) system and is similar in
appearance to the existing M26 LPC.
Funding constraints, coupled with the
decision to incorporate guidance packages
on extended-range rockets, resulted in a
limited production, low-rate procurement
strategy until the guided MLRS (GMLRS)
rocket procurement starts.
Only about 4,000 ER-MLRS were pro-
cured. This provides the field with an in-
terim capability until the more effective
GMLRS is fielded.
The Guided Multiple-Launch Rocket
System (GMLRS) supports Army trans-
formation with increased overmatch capa-
bilities and a reduced logistics footprint
over current free-flight rockets. GMLRS
will be used with the M270A1 and the HI-
MARS launchers. The rockets incorporate
GPS-aided inertial navigation systems.
GMLRS is a multinational development
program with the United States, United
Kingdom, Italy, France and Germany that
upgrades the extended-range multiple-
launch rocket system (ER-MLRS).
Guidance is performed by a low-cost
tactical-grade inertial measurement unit
(IMU), which is aided by a global position-
ing system (GPS) receiver. GPS is not mis-
sion essential, but provides a further in-
crease in accuracy when used in conjunc-
tion with the IMU. GMLRS provides the
necessary components (guidance, controls
and motor) for further precision and smart
submunition variants.
GMLRS has a maximum range of more
than 70 kilometers with accuracy mea-
sured in meters. It carries a warhead pay-
load of 404 dual-purpose improved con-
ventional munition (DPICM) bomblets
having considerably lower dud rates than
found in the current MLRS free-flight rock-
ets. The modular design will facilitate fu-
ture growth.
GMLRS began an advanced technology
demonstration (ATD) in 1994 with five
ATD flight tests completed in 1999. An in-
ternational memorandum of understand-
ing with France, Germany, Italy and the
United Kingdom was signed in 1998. The
program made the transition into engi-
neering and manufacturing development
(EMD) in 1999 and is managed by the U.S.
328 ARMY I October 2005
M109A6 Paladin 155 mm
self-propelled howitzer.
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Army MLRS project manager as an inter-
national cooperative development pro-
gram.
Asecond GMLRS variant is the GMLRS
Unitary Rocket. GMLRS unitary inte-
grates a 200-pound class unitary warhead
into the GMLRS. Like its predecessor, its
range exceeds 70 kilometers. Lockheed
Martin Missiles and Fire Control was
awarded the system development and
demonstration contract in September 2003.
Flight testing to date has demonstrated
pinpoint accuracy.
This munition will be used when terrain
conditions and/or rules of engagement
would otherwise preclude employment of
the DPICM variant. Its multimode war-
head fuze (impact, delay and airburst) will
greatly enhance its employment options
against many types of targets in various
combat environments.
An urgent-need statement was ap-
proved in January 2005 and initial deliver-
ies were made to the U.S. Army in June
2005 of the spiral 1 unitary capability. SDD
continues for the objective system.
Self-propelled Cannons/Support
The M109A6 Paladin 155 mm Self-Pro-
pelled Howitzer provides the primary in-
direct fire support to heavy divisions and
armored cavalry regiments. Like the ear-
lier M109 models, the M109A6 Paladin is a
fully tracked, armored vehicle. The en-
hanced Paladin configuration is achieved
through extensive modifications to exist-
ing M109A2/A3 vehicle hulls and the sub-
sequent introduction of an entirely new
turret structure.
The Paladin includes an onboard auto-
mated fire-control system (AFCS) that pro-
vides ballistic computation, weapon con-
trol, a vehicle location/navigation system,
secure radio communications systems, an
October 2005 I ARMY 329
M99A2 field artillery ammunition
supply vehicle (FAASV).
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improved M284 cannon and M182A1 gun
mount, automotive improvements, im-
proved ballistic and nuclear-biological-
chemical (NBC) protection, drivers night-
vision capability and built-in test equip-
ment. Additional chassis upgrades include
a remotely actuated travel lock (for
quicker emplacement and displacement),
longer torsion bars (to help support the
new turret) and a low-heat rejection en-
gine with an improved cooling system.
Described as the first digitized combat
vehicle in the Armys inventory, the Pal-
adin has improved responsiveness, surviv-
ability, lethality and reliability compared
to the earlier M109s.
In 2003 the product director for Pal-
adin/FAASV began working the next in-
crement of product improvements in the
M109A6 Paladin and M992A2 FAASVs
evolutionary acquisition. These improve-
ments incorporate handling and stowage
improvements for the newly fielded mod-
ular artillery charge system (MACS) and
upgrade the Paladin digital fire-control
system.
The M231 and M232 combustible case
MACS propelling charges will replace the
M3, M4 and M119 series bag propelling
charges with a modular build a charge
concept. The M231 MACS charge is fired
in zones 1 and 2 and the M232 MACS
charge is fired in zones 3 through 5, elimi-
nating the need to burn excess propellant
after fire missions.
The Paladin digital fire-control system
(PDFCS) is the third update to the M109A6
Paladins automated fire-control system.
The PDFCS incorporates three single
board computers operating technical fire-
control, situational awareness (through
FBCB
2
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nostics. The PDFCS will continue to be the
Paladins link to the Army C
4
ISR systems
and ABCS/software blocking and allows
for future C
4
network improvements.
A parallel U.S. Army recapitalization
effort can be seen in the M992A2 Field
Artillery Ammunition Supply Vehicle
(FAASV).
The basic M992A0 FAASV emerged
from an industry research and develop-
ment project designed to provide self-pro-
pelled field artillery units with a ballisti-
cally protected vehicle capable of perform-
ing critical resupply and support func-
tions. The FAASV system was type classi-
fied and entered production in 1983. It was
based on an M109 howitzer chassis that
provided the resupply asset with mobility
and survivability characteristics commen-
surate with the supported cannon element.
The system is now paired on a one-for-one
basis with the Armys M109A6 Paladin
self-propelled howitzer.
The latest increment of product im-
provements for M992A2 FAASVs evolu-
tionary acquisition incorporates an im-
proved 10Kw auxiliary power unit, im-
proved propelling charge storage shelves,
vertical projectile storage rack, conversion
from Halon to FM200 engine fire extin-
guishing agent and removal of the projec-
tile conveyor handling system.
Program planners indicate that the
Army is likely to support Paladin and the
FAASV vehicle systems on the battlefield
until 2030, with the inherent capabilities to
interoperate with an FCS-equipped unit of
action.
The XM2001/XM2002 Crusader Ad-
vanced Field Artillery System was a fully
automated, 155 mm self-propelled how-
itzer designed to provide a significant in-
crease in artillery survivability, lethality,
mobility and operational effectiveness.
On July 26, 2002, Undersecretary of De-
fense Edward C. Aldridge signed a memo-
randum directing that the U.S. Army take
prudent and deliberate actions to bring
about an orderly termination of the Cru-
sader program. The memorandum indi-
cated that development should continue
either as part of other transformation pro-
grams or as an indirect fire technology
demonstration.
Some of the Crusaders technology ad-
vances will be exploited by the FCS non-
line-of-sightcannon (NLOS-C) program.
Towed Howitzers
Designed for conditions encountered
during the Vietnam conflict, the M102 105
mm Towed Howitzer was first fielded to
1-21 Field Artillery, 9th Light Infantry Di-
vision, in Vietnam in 1966. It is a highly
versatile weapon system with a maximum
range of 11,500 meters.
Nearly one ton lighter than the World
War II-era M101A1 105 mm towed how-
itzer (4,980 pounds) that it replaced, the
M102 (3,338 pounds) proved to be a highly
versatile weapon.
Most M102 systems have been replaced
by the M119A1/A2 105 mm towed how-
itzer. More than 200 remain in service with
the Army National Guard (ARNG). In
2004, ARNG M102s were deployed to Iraq.
There are 10 Army National Guard battal-
ions that field the M102. Currently the
Army is considering equipping active
duty units with the M102.
The M119A1 105 mm Towed Howitzer
was first issued to the U.S. Armys 7th In-
fantry Division (Light) in December 1989.
Transportable by UH-60 helicopters, the
lightweight, towed field artillery system
(4,520 pounds including BII, 4,100 with-
out) provided significantly greater range
(14,000 meters standard, 19,500 high-ex-
plosive rocket-assisted) and lethality than
the M101A1/M102 105 mm towed how-
itzers that it replaced in a variety of light
units.
Based on the L118 British light gun, the
M119A1s provided to U.S. units were
modified with U.S. fire control, a cannon
assembly able to fire U.S. 105 mm ammu-
nition (vice the British electrically fired
Abbot ammunition) and the addition of
brackets to incorporate a chronograph and
battery computer system. A series of up-
grades to the basic M119A1 has resulted in
a redesignation of M119A2 for these mod-
ernized howitzers.
To provide even greater range and
lethality for light-unit fire-support ele-
ments, the Army began fielding the M198
155 mm Towed Howitzer in early 1979. As
a successor to the older M114A1 155 mm
towed system, the 15,750-pound (original
fielded weight) M198 provided a maxi-
mum range of 30 kilometers (with rocket-
assisted projectiles) and the capability to
fire a broader range of ammunition op-
tions than those available for 105 mm
units.
Normally towed by a 5-ton truck, the
M198 can also be moved by a CH-47D Chi-
nook helicopter or Air Force assets, C-130
and larger.
The M777/M777A1 Lightweight 155 mm
Howitzer (LW155) is a joint Marine Corps
and Army program to replace the M198
155 mm towed howitzer. The LW155 will
be a general support system for the
Armys light units, and direct-support can-
non fire-support system for the Stryker
330 ARMY I October 2005
M119A1 105 mm towed howitzer.
brigade combat team. It will be the sole
howitzer in the Marine Corps.
Its key performance parameters are a
howitzer weight of less than 10,000
pounds, emplacement time of two to three
minutes and a displacement time of one to
two minutes. The LW155 uses the M776
155 mm cannon, giving it a maximum fir-
ing range of approximately 30 kilometers
with rocket-assisted projectiles and 24.7
kilometers with standard rounds. It has a
maximum firing rate of four rounds per
minute and a sustained rate of two rounds
per minute.
The first engineering manufacturing
and development (EMD) LW155 was de-
livered to the government in June 2000.
After a joint Army-Marine operational
assessment in 2002, the Marine Corps was
given permission to begin low rate pro-
duction of the basic M777 howitzer. The
first production howitzer was delivered in
February 2004. The USMC began fielding a
total of 94 M777s in January 2005.
The M777A1 is a test version of the
M777 fitted with on-board electronics, giv-
ing it similar self-locating, self-laying and
digital communications as the M109A6
Paladin. The M777A1 is the first howitzer
capable of firing the XM982 Excalibur pro-
jectile described below. The Army first unit
equipped is scheduled to be the 2-11 Field
Artillery in the 2nd Brigade (Stryker bri-
gade combat team), 25th Infantry Division
(Light), in late 2006.
The XM982 Excalibur is the next-gener-
ation family of projectiles for the U.S.
Army and U.S. Marine Corps artillerya
155 mm precision-guided artillery round
with extended range. Excalibur is in joint
development with Sweden and will join
the family of smart projectiles developed
for the Swedish Army. In March 2004, the
fielding of the Excalibur was officially ac-
celerated to the second quarter of FY 2006,
in response to an urgent needs statement
submitted the previous summer by the
coalition forces land component comman-
der in Iraq.
The Excalibur weapon system consists
of three components: the software update
to AFATDS (advanced field artillery data
system), howitzer integration and the Ex-
calibur artillery round. AFATDS integrates
Excalibur into the Armys command and
control system and howitzer integration
facilitates providing fire control data to the
Excalibur projectile. Excalibur will be inte-
grated into the United States digitized
Paladin and LW 155 mm howitzers and
will be compatible with the NLOS-C (non-
line-of-sightcannon). Excalibur can also
be made compatible with nondigitized
howitzers.
Excalibur is a jam-resistant, GPS-guided
projectile that provides accurate, first
round fire-for-effect capability to all cur-
rent and future 155 mm howitzers. Excal-
ibur will achieve a 40 km range from Pal-
adin and the LW155 mm howitzer with an
accuracy of better than 10-meter CEP at all
ranges. Excalibur demonstrated its accu-
October 2005 I ARMY 331
Excalibur jam-resistant, GPS-guided projectile being fired.
racy in November/December 2004 with
successful test shots resulting in impacts
3.4 and 6.9 meters from the aim point at a
range of 20 kilometers. This accuracy is
possible because of its highly maneuver-
able GPS-guided airframe. Its accuracy is
achievable throughout its range envelope
with extremely low round-to-round dis-
persion. Excalibur is the only cannon solu-
tion to limit collateral damage and opti-
mize effectiveness with the fewest number
of rounds.
Excalibur will have increased effective-
ness when compared to current artillery
rounds. Excaliburs lethality is achieved
with precise terminal accuracy, near verti-
cal angle of attack, multi-function fuze and
a fragmenting warhead. Its accuracy will
reduce collateral damage and permit its
use close to friendly units thus increasing
employment flexibility. Accuracy will also
greatly reduce the number of rounds re-
quired to perform any lethal artillery mis-
sion. The near vertical angle of attack is
ideal for achieving effects in urban or com-
plex terrain and increases the performance
of the fragmenting warhead.
The multifunction fuze provides height-
of-burst (HOB), point-detonating (PD) and
delay-fuze settings. AHOB setting will en-
able soldiers and marines in contact to en-
gage enemy soldiers on rooftops and in
windows while the delay setting will be
ideal for penetrating bunkers, structures
and other enemy strong points. The PD
fuze will be effective against enemy
troops, light armor and trucks. This exten-
sive target set for a single round and fuze
combined with the round savings
achieved through accuracy makes Excal-
ibur the most logistically sound precision
engagement weapon available to close-
combat units.
Mortar Systems
The 60 mm M224 Lightweight Com-
pany Mortar serves in light infantry for-
mations, including the Armys 75th Rang-
er Regiment. With a maximum range of
approximately 3,500 meters, the M224 pro-
vides indirect fire support across the entire
company front and at sufficient range to
engage targets out to the limit of the com-
pany zone of influence.
Tactical ammunition options include a
high-explosive/multioption fuze, high-ex-
plosive-point detonating, white phosphorous/
smoke and illumination. The smoothbore
system can be gravity-fired or fired by us-
ing a manual spring-loaded firing system.
It uses the M64A1 (replacing the M64)
sight, which is self-illuminated for night
operations.
Procurement of this system began in FY
1978 with more than 2,000 units fielded to
the Army and Marine Corps.
The 81 mm M252 Mortar is the Armys
designation for the Royal Ordnance L16A2
system, originally referred to as the I-81
(improved). The M252 has a maximum
range in excess of 5,935 meters, making it
capable of indirect fire support across the
entire battalion front at sufficient range to
engage targets out to the battalions zone
of influence.
With a sustained firing rate of 15 rounds
per minute, the M252 can fire a variety of
NATO-standard ammunition, including
high-explosive, red phosphorous/smoke
and illumination.
The M821A2 was type classified with
the M734A1 fuze to improve the safety,
performance and producibility of the car-
tridge. The use of an HF-1 steel body on
the M889A1, M821A1 and M821A2 car-
tridges significantly improves the lethality
over previous generations of 81 mm car-
tridges.
The 120 mm (M120/M121) Mortar Sys-
tem provides an organic indirect fire-sup-
port capability to the maneuver unit com-
mander. It is a conventional smoothbore,
muzzle-loaded mortar system that pro-
vides increased range, lethality and safety
compared to the World War II-vintage 4.2-
inch heavy mortar system it replaces in
mechanized infantry, motorized, armored
and cavalry units. With a maximum range
of 7,240 meters, the system is used in both
towed (M120) and carrier-mounted (M121)
versions and fires a family of enhanced
ammunition that is produced in the
United States.
Initial fieldings of the towed version be-
gan in September 1991 at Fort Lewis,
Wash., followed by fielding of the M1064
carrier-mounted system. The subsequent
upgrade of force package I and II carriers
to M1064A3 configuration has been com-
pleted.
Acomplete Family of 120 mm Enhanced
Mortar Ammunition is being produced by
several government and commercial
sources. The M933/934 high-explosive
round received full materiel release and is
in production. The M929 white phospho-
rus/smoke received full materiel release in
the second quarter of 1999 and is also in
production. The M929 incorporates the
M734A1 multioption fuze, which signifi-
cantly improves performance, lethality, re-
liability and electronic countermeasure
protection.
The M734A1 fuze is being incorporated
into the improved 120 mm M934A1 high-
explosive (HE) round. This round was re-
leased in the fourth quarter of 2000 and
has 50 percent more lethality than its pre-
decessor.
Program projections call for develop-
ment and qualification of an insensitive
munition solution for the M934A1 HE
round, which is designated M934A1E1.
The 120 mm M931 full-range training
round received full materiel release during
the second quarter of 1999 and is in pro-
duction.
The new 120 mm white (visible) light
(M930) and infrared (M983) illumination
rounds are in limited production.
The XM32 Mortar Ballistic Computer
(MBC), replacing the current M23, will ini-
tially use new software hosted on the Land
Warrior Advanced Warfighter Experiment
(LWAWE) hardware system. Land Warrior
production hardware will host the objec-
tive system.
The M95/96 Mortar Fire-Control System
(MFCS) will provide 120 mm mortar users
with Paladin-like fire-control capability
that greatly improves responsiveness and
crew survivability. The system is undergo-
ing software development and hardware
tests in the M1064 weapon carrier and the
M577 fire-direction center.
Technology leading to an extended-
range (10 to 12 kilometers) XM984 DPICM
round that includes a self-destruct capabil-
ity is also being developed.
The DPICM round will carry 54 M80
submunitions, doubling the lethality of the
120 mm high-explosive round. Advanced
technology demonstrations (ATDs) have
332 ARMY I October 2005
81 mm M252 mortar.
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been completed and the program is poised
to enter component advanced develop-
ment (CAD).
In addition, the 120 mm mortar systems
tremendous growth potential is being
exploited through another CAD program
that is exploring the potential of XM395
Precision-Guided Mortar Munitions
(PGMM) at ranges of 12 to 15 kilometers.
PGMMs extended range and precision
strike capability will improve survivability
and reduce collateral damage. PGMM can
be launched from any standard 120 mm
mortar platform with modification of ex-
isting force structure. Compared to other
indirect fire weapons, mortars are very re-
sponsive, inherently deployable and tacti-
cally mobile. PGMM will further enhance
modern mortar systems by achieving first-
round effects on target and multiple orders
of magnitude increases in per-round
lethality. Such a precision weapon will,
when airlifted, maximize the lethality of
the U.S. Armys lift capability and reduce
the size of the logistics tail. Once fielded,
PGMM will provide organic indirect preci-
sion strike capability to the maneuver
force.
PGMM is a laser-guided 120 mm mortar
with extended-range glide capability. It
has three major subsystems: seeker, projec-
tile and warhead. The seeker is a low-cost,
strap-down laser sensor with superior reli-
ability. The projectile has folded switch-
blade wings that provide lift and actuator-
controlled tail fins for controlled flight to
the extended range. The glide and end-
game maneuverability are achieved with-
out the added weight, cost and complexity
of a rocket motor. The warhead will be op-
timized to defeat threats behind protective
cover, such as crew-served weapon sta-
tions, command posts and observers used
in fortified positions. The ability to take
out precision targets in urban environ-
ments will be critical in future conflicts.
The asymmetrical nature of future
threats combined with operations in urban
environments will require PGMMs surgi-
cal indirect fire capability to minimize col-
lateral damage and still allow comman-
ders to destroy enemy targets that are
close to sensitive cultural areas.
PGMM will provide dramatic increases
in the survivability of friendly forces. To-
day, targets behind protective cover must
be destroyed by hand-emplaced explo-
sives or direct fire, often requiring a costly
assault. The new capability provided by
PGMM will defeat these targets without
requiring a close-range attack.
The single-shot lethality of PGMM
makes it exceptionally cost-effective. This
system is under development by U.S.
Army Tank-automotive and Armaments
Command (TACOM) Armaments Re-
search and Development Center (ARDEC),
Picatinny Arsenal, N.J.
C
4
Support to Effects and Fires
The Advanced Field Artillery Tactical
Data System (AFATDS) provides auto-
mated fire-support command, control and
communications for the Army, Navy and
Marine Corps including target-weapon
pairing for optimum use of fire-support
assets and automated planning, coordina-
tion and control of all fire-support assets.
AFATDS performs the attack analysis nec-
essary to determine the optimal weapon-
target pairing to provide maximum use of
the fire-support assets (field artillery, mor-
tars, close air support, naval gunfire, at-
tack helicopters and offensive electronic
warfare). AFATDS will automatically im-
plement detailed commanders guidance
in the automation of operational planning,
movement control, targeting, target value
analysis and fire-support planning.
This project is a replacement system for
the lightweight tactical fire direction sys-
tem (LTACFIRE) initial fire-support auto-
mated system (IFSAS), battery computer
system (BCS) and fire direction system
(FDS). AFATDS will interoperate with the
other Army battle command systems
(ABCS), current and future Navy and Air
Force command and control weapon sys-
tems, and the German, French, British and
October 2005 I ARMY 333
Italian fire-support systems. AFATDS will
perform the fire-support command, con-
trol and coordination requirements at all
echelons of field artillery and maneuver,
from echelons above corps to battery or
platoon in support of all levels of conflict.
The system is composed of common hard-
ware/software used in varying configura-
tions at different operational facilities (or
nodes) and unique system software inter-
connected by tactical communications in
the form of a software-driven, automated
network. AFATDS began fielding 1995 to
the 1st Cavalry Division and is completely
fielded to the active Army. Fielding contin-
ues to remaining field artillery units in the
Army National Guard.
A critical capability for the warfighter is
battlefield radar that can detect, classify
and locate enemy mortar, artillery, rocket
and missile systems within seconds of
their firing, allowing immediate and over-
whelming responses. The AN/TPQ-36 and
AN/TPQ-37 are mortar and artillery locat-
ing systems that have been used exten-
sively in OEF and OIF with great success
and are credited with forcing the enemy to
radically change its tactics. The AN/TPQ-
36(V)8 Electronics Upgrade to the mortar-,
artillery- and rocket-locating Firefinder
radar improves the operations control
group (OCG) through the installation of
state-of-the-art electronics and common
hardware/software (CHS) in the light-
weight multipurpose shelter (LMS). The
upgrade is an open architecture design,
and it allows Firefinder to communicate
on the digitized battlefield. The operations
central (OC) (previously the OCG) is
mounted on an Ml097 heavy Humvee,
which tows the antenna-transceiver group
(ATG) on a modified M116A3 trailer. A
second Ml097 Humvee carries a palletized
MEP-112A generator and tows an
M116A2El cargo trailer. A Humvee recon-
naissance vehicle (M998 or Ml038) tows a
second (backup) MEP-112A generator
mounted on an M116A2El trailer.
Major subsystems of the OC include an
operator control station (OCS), a control/
display terminal (CDT), a radar processor
and a shelter. The CDT allows the operator
to command and control system opera-
tions from a remote site up to 100 meters
from the shelter. The radar processor per-
forms all system-processing functions not
assigned to the OCS and is programmable
and reconfigurable to maximize system
performance under varying target and op-
erating environment conditions. The OCS
provides the man-machine interface and is
a modern Windows-type display. The LMS
enhances the man-machine interface and
electronics environment by providing 50
percent more interior space.
The AN/TPQ-37(V)8 Firefinder is a mo-
bile, phased-array, artillery-locating radar
system. It is larger than the AN/TPQ-36
and its target acquisition range is greater.
The operations shelter is identical to that
used with the AN/TPQ-36(V)5 and con-
sists of an operations control group
mounted on an M-35-series truck, and the
MEP-115A, 60-kilowatt, 400-hertz genera-
tor set mounted on a 5-ton truck. This
truck also tows the antenna transceiver
group consisting of the phased-array an-
tenna, transmitter, receiver and associated
electronics mounted on the M-1048 trailer,
a 6-ton four-wheel flatbed cargo trailer.
The system uses a combination of radar
techniques and computer-controlled func-
tions to detect and accurately locate enemy
artillery and rocket weapons to permit
rapid engagement with counterfire.
The AN/TPQ-37(V)8 upgrade program
incorporates mechanical enhancements to
improve reliability, availability and main-
tainability (RAM). It improves transporta-
bility, mobility, survivability and common-
ality with the AN/TPQ-36. Software im-
provements include reduced false loca-
tions and incorporation of a long-range
mode. Special features include a new, im-
proved cooler, C-130 transportability kit,
MAPS self-survey, and a separate tape for
long-range missile detection software. The
system will be strategically deployable
and operable at all levels of conflict. Two
AN/TPQ-37s are assigned to the target ac-
quisition battery of each division and used
with the AN/TPQ-36. Both the AN/TPQ-
36 and AN/TPQ-37 Firefinder radars were
a success in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
They were lauded for their ability to ac-
quire enemy mortars and artillery, allow-
ing quick and effective counter-battery fire.
The Lightweight Counter-Mortar Radar
(LCMR) fills a critical gap in the protection
of ground-based forces. It addresses indi-
rect fire threats, automatically locating
mortar weapons in a 360-degree area of
cover. The system can rapidly detect, track
and locate mortar rounds at ranges out to
the effective range of most mortar
weapons, which allows the enemy to be
neutralized through combat air support or
counterfire. As of July 2005, 35 systems
have been deployed with Army Special
Forces, conventional Army and Marine
units, and as part of the counterrocket, ar-
tillery and mortars (C-RAM) system-of-
systems in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Forward Observer System (FOS) is
an automated fire-support system located
on multiple platforms at the corps fire-
support element, division field artillery
fire-support element, field artillery brigade
fire-support element and field artillery bat-
talion echelons. FOS provides the com-
mander, fire-support officer, fire-support
team, forward observer and survey team
with an automated decision-making capa-
bility for using the fire-support systems.
FOS performs automated fire mission, ar-
tillery target intelligence, fire planning,
survey and geometry processing in sup-
port of the field artillery mission.
The AN/TMQ-41 and AN/TMQ-41A
Meteorological Measuring Set (MMS) is
an upper air meteorological system that
uses state-of-the-art technology to make
vertical profiles of the earths atmosphere.
The MMS sounds the atmosphere with a
balloon-borne radiosonde, which mea-
sures the meteorological (MET) parame-
ters of temperature, pressure, relative hu-
midity, wind speed and wind direction.
This information is processed by the MMS
computer and is available in STANAG,
334 ARMY I October 2005
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Firefinder.
WMO and FATDS formats. Typical users
include: Field Artillery, Corps of Engi-
neers, Chemical Corps, target acquisition
elements, NATO and USAF weather fore-
casters. Messages may be disseminated by
radio (voice or digital), landline (telephone
or teletype) or by hand-delivered, hard-
copy printouts.
The MMS has the flexibility to operate
anywhere in the world and allows the user
to select the mode of operation most suit-
able for his situation. Multiple methods of
determining winds are available through
the use of radio direction-finding (RDF)
techniques or navigational aids (NAVAID),
such as LORAN or GPS.
The multipurpose lightweight mobile
shelter (S-788) mounted on the Humvee
shelter carrier affords a degree of mobility
unequalled by any other meteorological
system. In the transport mode, the RDF
stores completely within the shelter, which
allows the vehicle towing capability to be
available for power supply or general
cargo towing. Both the S-788 shelter and
the Humvee are rapidly becoming stan-
dard for military applications.
The meteorological measuring sets au-
tomatic processing capability combined
with the ability to communicate digitally
over landline or radio directly with the ar-
tillery computer provides real-time MET
to the user. The data is timely, accurate and
available when needed, thus contributing
to first-round hits. The MMS supports en-
cryption devices to facilitate secure com-
munications.
The AN/TMQ-52 Meteorological Mea-
sure Set-Profiler (MMS-P) is a replace-
ment for the meteorological measuring set
(MMS). Profiler uses a suite of meteorolog-
ical (MET) sensors and MET data from
communications satellites along with an
advanced weather model to provide
highly accurate MET data out to a range of
500 km.
The current MMS relies upon a balloon-
borne radiosonde to measure and transmit
MET conditions such as wind speed, wind
direction, temperature, pressure and hu-
midity. It is considered accurate only to 20
km from the balloon launch site and can-
not provide target-area MET data. Profiler
provides the same MET information MMS
does and adds rate of precipitation, visibil-
ity, cloud height and cloud ceiling. All of
these are required for precise targeting and
terminal guidance.
Profiler uses this information to build a
four-dimensional MET model (height,
width, depth and time) that includes ter-
rain effects. This gridded MET (METGM)
output can then be used to literally fly pro-
jectiles through a virtual space and apply
MET effect along the entire trajectory and
refine the technical fire solution.
By providing accurate MET messages,
Profiler will enable the artillery to have a
greater probability of first-round hit with
indirect fire. This new capability will in-
crease the lethality of all field artillery plat-
forms such as the multiple launch rocket
system (MLRS), Paladin, and self-pro-
pelled or towed howitzers, and will pro-
duce significant savings for the Army.
The Initial Fire-Support Automated
System (IFSAS) is an automated fire-sup-
port command and control system located
at the corps fire-support element, division
artillery fire-support element, field ar-
tillery brigade fire-support element and
field artillery battalion echelons. IFSAS
provides the commander with an auto-
mated command and control decision-
making capability for using cannon, rocket
and missile delivery systems. IFSAS per-
forms automated fire mission, artillery tar-
get intelligence, fire planning, fire unit sta-
tus, ammunition accounting and meteoro-
logical and geometry processing in sup-
port of the field artillery mission.
The Battery Computer System (BCS) is
an automated fire-support command and
control system located at field artillery bat-
tery echelons. BCS provides the comman-
der with an automated command and con-
trol decision-making capability for using
cannon delivery systems. BCS performs
automated fire missions, fire planning, fire
October 2005 I ARMY 335
unit status, ammunition accounting and
meteorological and geometry processing
in support of the field artillery missions.
336 ARMY I October 2005