Army future light tank for infantry units offers lightweight armored combat vehicle with updated vetronics
WARREN, Mich. – The U.S. Army’s Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) program seeks to provide a light armored combat vehicle to Army infantry brigade combat teams for use against hardened positions, enemy infantry, and light armored vehicles. 1945 reports. Continue reading original article
The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:
14 Oct. 2021 -- The MPF vehicle -- essentially a light tank -- will equip Army light infantry and airborne units that do not have a tracked armored combat vehicle. Competing vehicles are from BAE Systems Platforms & Services segment in Falls Church, Va., and General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights, Mich.
The General Dynamics entry will have electronics and fire control systems similar to the company's larger M1 Abrams main battle tank to simplify training, and will have a 105-millimeter main gun.
The BAE Systems version is considerably smaller and lighter, and an easily removable engine for in-field repairs and maintenance. It's based on the M8 Armored Gun System, has underbelly blast protection, updated vetronics, and modest engine output.
John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics
