M109 Family of Vehicles, Paladin Integrated Management (PIM): Operational Assessment of the Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT and E)
Abstract
This report provides my assessment of the operational effectiveness, operational suitability, test adequacy, and survivability of the M109 Family of Vehicles (FoV), known as Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) and Carrier, Ammunition, Tracked (CAT) resupply vehicle. PIM is survivable against ballistic threats including small arms, fragmented Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), blast mines, and indirect fires. There are cybersecurity vulnerabilities and Live Fire test recommendations that the program should address prior to full-rate production. This operational assessment is based on data from the October 2016 Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT and E), which was suspended for safety concerns for toxic fumes after completion of one of three planned record vignettes. IOT and E was not completed. The test was adequate to conclude the M109A7 SPH is not operationally effective and not operationally suitable. Cannon artillery units equipped with PIM SPH cannot execute delivery of cannon field artillery munitions using M232A1 Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS 5H) charge increment. The test was not adequate to conclude that the CAT is operationally effective and suitable. The Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC)conducted the first of three planned vignettes of the IOT and E in accordance with a test plan approved by the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT and E).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1026142
Entities
People
- J. M. Gilmore