Just two weeks after selecting a company to provide prototypes for its next-generation wheeled self-propelled howitzer, the US Army is now examining a tracked alternative intended for armored formations.
A recent request for information issued by the Army’s fires acquisition organization states that the new initiative is separate from the MTC-W effort, which is focused on replacing the towed M777 howitzer with a wheeled self-propelled system.
Separate effort from the M777 replacement program
The Army says that it has recently reassessed its modernization objectives and moved forward with plans to replace the M777 with a wheeled self-propelled howitzer.
The new request, however, seeks an additional capability: a tracked self-propelled 155mm howitzer designed for use within armored formations.
By treating the two efforts as separate programs, the Army appears to be pursuing artillery systems tailored to different operational roles and force structures.
Industry asked to provide production and US manufacturing data
The Army is asking interested companies to provide information on the expected production lead times for a tracked howitzer and a compatible resupply vehicle.
The request also seeks details regarding:
- maximum production capacity;
- delivery timelines for initial systems;
- options for establishing or expanding US-based production if manufacturing is currently located overseas;
- availability of a tracked howitzer, a resupply vehicle and support personnel;
- participation in demonstration and safety-testing events using US ammunition;
- the technical data rights that could be provided to the government.
The Army wants access to sufficient technical information to operate, maintain, modify and potentially produce the system without excessive dependence on the original supplier.
Responses due September 11
Interested companies must submit their responses by September 11. The Army also plans to hold an industry day in the coming period to clarify the program’s requirements and expected acquisition timeline.
The request does not constitute a firm order or a contract award. Its purpose is to assess available systems, industrial capacity and potential challenges associated with production, integration and testing.
Wheeled and tracked platforms serve different roles
Wheeled vehicles are generally lighter, faster on paved roads and easier to transport. Tracked platforms, by contrast, are usually heavier but offer greater mobility across muddy, uneven or otherwise difficult terrain.
A tracked howitzer could operate more effectively alongside tanks and armored vehicles, maintaining the pace of mechanized formations and providing improved tactical mobility in demanding conditions.
Earlier artillery modernization requests did not specifically require either a wheeled or tracked platform. They did, however, call for a system with protection comparable to the M109A7, along with improved mobility and transportability.
US artillery modernization expands beyond a single platform
The new initiative follows the Army’s award of a contract worth up to $233 million to Hanwha Defense USA for wheeled self-propelled howitzer prototypes.
The Army’s modernization plans are intended to replace both the towed M777 howitzer and the M109A7 self-propelled system. The M109 family originally entered service in the 1960s, although the M109A7 incorporates extensive upgrades.
By exploring a tracked variant, the Army may be seeking to preserve a heavy artillery capability for armored formations while developing a lighter and more readily deployable wheeled system for other types of units.
