Crusader XM2001 Self-Propelled Howitzer: Background and Issues for Congress

Abstract

The Army has been seeking to enhance its self-propelled 155mm artillery capabilities since the late 1970's. In addition to several programs to modify the M109 artillery system, culminating in the current M109A6 Paladin, since 1987 these efforts have focused on what is now called the XM2001 Crusader. Initially begun in order to match the mobility and firepower of Soviet artillery, the Crusader program is now the center of a controversy over whether it is an appropriate investment given the Army's on-going transformation to a lighter, more mobile force. Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld has announced his intent to terminate the program, however the Crusader's supporters in the House and Senate Armed Services Committees are seeking legislative provisions to maintain the program until at least May 2003 while an assessment of alternatives is conducted. This report will be updated as further events occur.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 25, 2002
Accession Number
ADA467684

Entities

People

  • Edward F. Bruner
  • Steve Bowman

Organizations

  • Library of Congress

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Aircrafts
  • Artillery
  • Congress
  • Department Of Defense
  • Fire Support
  • Howitzers
  • Indirect Fire
  • Law
  • Multiple Launch Rocket System
  • Procurement
  • Self Propelled
  • Self Propelled Guns
  • Tilt Rotor Aircraft
  • Vehicles
  • Warfare
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Government and Public Administration Law.
  • Military Science