2002 Update of the 155 mm Lightweight Howitzer
Abstract
The 155 mm Lightweight Howitzer is intended to be a lighter, more transportable, and mobile weapon for strategic and tactical movements. Weapon performance requirements include a maximum weight of 10,500 pounds (about 5,500 pounds less than the M-198 towed howitzer it is to replace) and reduced time to place the weapon in a firing position compared with current weapons. The Army-Marine Corps Lightweight Howitzer Joint Program Office directs the Lightweight Howitzer development program. The Army will assume program management responsibilities for the Lightweight Howitzer program upon completion of deliveries to the Marine Corps. The Army plans to buy 273 guns and the Marines plan to buy 377, which is less than their earlier plan to buy 413, due to the deletion of a requirement to store howitzers in caves in Norway and other fielding changes. BAE is the Lightweight Howitzer prime contractor. Cannon barrels are being produced at the U.S. Army's Watervliet Arsenal under a separate contract and are to be provided as government-furnished equipment. The howitzer will eventually incorporate TAD, an onboard, precision, self-locating, and electronic aiming system. Until May 2002, General Dynamics was developing TAD under a separate contract for the Army. As part of the most recent program restructuring General Dynamics is now producing TAD under a subcontract for BAE.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 24, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA404822
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office