Posted on Jun 1, 2016
18 ways the Army wants to make you deadlier
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If you look at a soldier from World War II or Korea or Vietnam, you will see similarities to today’s infantryman: helmet, rifle, bullets, boots: the basics.
Naturally, there’s a lot of differences, too. In five years, there will be more, and 15 years, more still, as the Army works to keep the technological edge of the dismounted combat troop.
As wide-ranging as they are, both near-term and long-term advances sought by the Army reveal some emerging themes.
•The Army wants soldiers better protected, but also lighter and more agile.
•The Army wants better situational awareness, including improved vision at night.
•The Army wants to empower smaller units with more portable versions of tech now available to higher echelons.
But what about your guns? Improvements may be more incremental. Physics have limits and so do budgets. But the Army is upgrading carbines with a more reliable barrel, it has picked out a new sniper rifle and it is working to do the same for a new handgun.
These improvements come from a variety of sources, including the Army’s Research, Engineering and Development Command (working closely with industry and academia), the Maneuver Center of Excellence (infused with ideas direct from the battlefield) and of course Program Executive Office Soldier, which develops prototypes and procures field equipment as technological advances become available.
The result: an Army constantly developing and prioritizing new gear to make the dismounted soldier safer and more lethal. Here are just some of the programs underway that could mean new gear to the front lines — sooner than you think.
1. M4A1
What does it do? Long-distance hole-punch. (It’s the latest version of your M4 carbine rifle.)
How heavy is it? Unloaded and without accessories: 7.74 pounds
When might you have one? You might already. The upgrade of M4s (and replacement of M16s) is around a quarter complete and will continue until roughly 2020.
Why should you care?The upgrade offers a heavier barrel; some soldiers reported M4s overheating, becoming warped and then jamming during extended use, particularly in Afghanistan. It also adds ambidextrous safety controls and converts the weapon’s three-round burst option into fully-automatic.
Will this actually happen? Yes. Here's what won't happen, however: The Army also ran a market survey in March 2015 for additional M4 upgrades dubbed M4A1+. Ideas included: an extended Picatinny rail, a floating barrel for enhanced accuracy, and an optional sniper-style single-stage trigger for marksmen, flash suppressor, removable sights, and more neutral colors, among a variety of other enhancements. But the “plus” died with the survey; there’s currently no formal requirements, program of record nor funding.
2. XM17 (Modular Handgun System)
What does it do? This will replace the Beretta M9 as the Army’s sidearm.
How heavy is it? The 351-page requirement document does not specify a weight, but presumably similar weight to a standard striker-style handgun, between 1.5 and 2 pounds.
When might you have one? The Army plans for full-rate production in 2018.
Why should you care? The Army has used an iteration of the M9 as its standard sidearm since 1985. The new pistol will feature better modularity, ergonomics, and accuracy. The requirements require a striker-style firing mechanism. The modular aspect will include ability to adjust grip size, and to add accessories via a Picatinny rail. The competition is open caliber, so the 9mm NATO standard round could be upsized to a .40 or a .45 caliber weapon. In addition the Army, which has stuck with full metal jackets for decades, has not ruled out hollow-point or fragmenting ammunition.
Will this actually happen? Probably. But not definitely. Companies (the Army won’t say how many) have submitted their candidates for the contract for the Army to evaluate, so the wheels are in motion. But that was also true of the Individual Carbine program canceled in 2013, and soldiers still carry M4s with no replacement plans in sight. Complaints of cost/waste have already emerged: Army Chief Gen. Mark Milley quipped he could find a new pistol with $17 million and a trip to Cabela’s, and Sen. John McCain slammed the MHS program in his series of “Americas Most Wasted” reports. If such complaints intensify in a tight budget environment, the Army could pull the plug.
3. Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System
What does it do? It shoots people from far away. The Army has selected a variant of Heckler & Koch’s G28 for the role, replacing the M110.
How heavy is it? Roughly 12.7 pounds, or 3 pounds lighter than the M110.
When might you have one? 2016-2018. For the next 24 months, the Army will conduct production qualification testing and operational testing to ensure the rifles meet requirements. If they pass, they’ll move to full-rate production and fielding.
Why should you care? Because you like your marksmen to have sniper rifles as good or better than their current ones, but smaller and lighter. The Army wanted a rifle that was easier to use in close quarters that also offered better ergonomics, accuracy and reliability.
Will this actually happen? Almost certainly. The contract’s been awarded, so if the 30 rifles H&K provide for testing prove as effective as the ones tested, the Army will buy up to 3,643.
4. XM25
What does it do? The XM25 grenade launcher and its five-25mm grenade magazine offers a programmable round and fire control.
How heavy is it? Roughly 14 pounds, unloaded.
When might you have one? Perhaps as soon as 2017. Assuming funding (which the Army has requested for the coming fiscal year) and testing stay on track.
Why should you care? This stand-alone weapon offers the ability to set a laser on a target, gauge distance automatically, program a grenade to go that distance (with manual adjustments) and fire the grenade. Fire control takes into account various ballistics and environmental factors to aid accuracy, as do magnified optical and thermal sights. In short, aim at a wall, push a button to program the point you want the grenade to explode. From there, aim fire. The 25mm grenade is designed to explode right where you told it to, from up to 500-600 meters away.
Will this actually happen? More likely than not. It’s been in the pipeline for years; it was pulled from the battlefield in Afghanistan in 2013 due to injury-causing malfunctions. The company and Army hope the kinks are worked out: it’s a program of record recently named in the 2017 budget as a priority that meets a critical capability gap, so this isn’t far out.
5. IRAP (Increase Range Anti-Personnel)
What does it do? Along with the separate XM25 weapon, the Army is pursuing a new 40mm grenade cartridge that can be fired by the M320, one with better range and accuracy as well as advanced fuze functionality (when and why it explodes).
How heavy is it? Roughly the same as an M433 grenade round.
When might you have one? It is planned to start as a program of record (a funded weapons program) in 2017.
Why should you care? The IRAP rolled in the technology from the Small Arms Grenade Munition smart grenade, which can sense a wall or building or obstacle and then automatically explode just after passing it. SAGM required no pre-programming; just point your standard grenade launcher and shoot. The requirements from a December market survey indicate the Army wants increased range, lethality and accuracy as well as increased fuze functionality and versatility compared to the M433. The survey asked vendors what would trigger an airburst or explosion, and whether any other equipment like fire control would be needed for a demonstration.
Will this actually happen? With plans to become a program of record next year: very likely. The Army says the round is not competing against the XM25 — although every defense dollar is competing against every other defense dollar, especially in at least a relatively similar functionality. Unlike the XM25, SAGM doesn’t require the Army to buy new guns. If the price-tag doesn't vary too much from standard grenades, it’d be easy to imagine this supplementing or supplanting those purchases. Even if not, the Army still sounds like it's fairly committed, though no solicitation has been issued.
6. XM1112
What does it do? Designed for the M320 grenade launcher, the XM1112 is a 40mm airburst non-lethal munition. The round has a fuel enriched pyrotechnic payload, proximity air burst, and selectable delay option fuse. It is capable of a flash-bang effect, which causes visual and sound impairment.
It can be used for force protection, clearing, patrols, crowd control and offensive or defensive operations.
How heavy is it? About half a pound.
When might you have one? The rounds are scheduled to be fielded in fiscal year 2018.
Why should you care? This less-lethal round provides soldiers with a significant increase in standoff range compared with the currently fielded 40mm non-lethal rounds. The new XM1112 gives soldiers 300 meters of standoff, compared with the current 50 meters provided by the non-lethal rounds already in the force.
This new capability also helps minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage while giving soldiers more flexibility during escalation of force and in non-combat environments.
Will this actually happen? It looks really good, but fielding also depends on Army priorities and resourcing strategy.
7. XM1116 (non-lethal round)
What does it do? This non-lethal extended range marking munition is designed for the 12-gauge shotgun. It can be used for force protection, crowd control, patrols and at checkpoints. It is similar to a bean bag round, and it marks its target so soldiers can later identify or capture the person they were targeting.
How heavy is it? 1.43 ounces.
When might you have one? The Army is slated to field the XM1116 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018.
Why should you care? The 12-gauge XM1116 provides an improved capability that allows soldiers to employ non-lethal marking capabilities at an effective range of 30 to 50 meters. This additional capability helps minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage while giving soldiers more flexibility during escalation of force and in non-combat environments.
Will this actually happen? Most probably, but it also depends on Army priorities and resourcing strategy.
8. Integrated Head Protection System/Light Weight Army Combat Helmet
What do they do? Protect your dome. And in the case of the Integrated Head Protection System, also your jaw. And neck. And eyes. And hearing.
How heavy is it? Unclear, but lighter than your current combat helmet, in both cases, especially the Light Weight Advanced Combat Helmet.
When might you have one? The IHPS could arrive by the end of 2018. The LWACH is slated to start arriving at DLA in early 2017.
Why should you care? PEO Soldier has been working on a more comprehensive helmet with a more comfortable fit. Like a number of Army programs, modularity will play a role, with a soldier able to remove the a jaw protection element and a face shield as well as attach accessories to the helmet. Overall the helmet will have better fragmentation, ballistic and impact effectiveness. Current designs also feature ability to add ballistic appliques to the helmet, which provide additional protection. Meanwhile, the LWACH offers an even lighter-weight alternative to the ACH.
Will this actually happen? Seems likely. The Army has worked on the system for three years. The IHPS, the more heavy-duty and involved version, is currently in source-selection (the Army is picking a manufacturer). Meanwhile the LWACH just needs to pass some qualification testing.
9. TEP a.k.a. better body armor
What does it do? Stops/slows bullets and shrapnel, without slowing the soldier quite so much. Components of the Torso and Extremities Protection system — such as the Ballistic Combat Shirt and Modular Scalable Vest — will offer protection of the Army’s heavy-duty body armor, only at a lighter weight and with better range of motion.
How heavy is it? Roughly 23 pounds loaded up with heavy plates (assuming medium size).
When might you have one? Most of the Armor should field around 2019, with new plates sometime thereafter.
Why should you care? Because you like the protection of the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (31 pounds, fully loaded) but think it could be lighter and less obstructive. The ballistic shirt consists of protection on the upper back, upper chest and neck, while completely covering the arms with ballistic/protective sleeves. That eliminates the bulky IOTV shoulder pads. The vest also offers similar protection at a lighter weight, thanks to new materials, and carries all the same plates as the IOTV. The Army is also developing new plates (the heaviest part) that are roughly 7 percent lighter than current plates for the same protection. They also allow for modularity to cater to different protection levels and body types. In addition, an outer-wear pelvic protector offers the same protection as the two-part system soldiers currently use, only, again, lighter and more agile. Meanwhile, a Load Distribution System consists of a ballistic combat belt that flows underneath the vest and a load-bearing spine that distributes weight to the waist rather than putting it all on the shoulders.
Will this actually happen? Most likely, yes. The armor has cleared the engineering and development phases last summer and has generated positive soldier feedback in testing.
10. JETS
What does it do? JETS doesn’t fly but it guides things that do fly — and go boom. Joint Effects Targeting System offers soldiers a portable system to more quickly call for precision artillery fire.
How heavy is it? Total: 17 pounds, including tripod. The Handheld Target Location Module will weigh a max of 5.5 pounds. Supporting capabilities include a Precision Azimuth and Vertical Angle Module and a Laser Marker Module, which may or may not be needed depending on the environment.
When might you have one? Limited rollout targeted for 2018, with broader fielding to follow. The end-goal will be fielding one per platoon.
Will this actually happen? Most likely, yes. The armor has cleared the engineering and development phases last summer and has generated positive soldier feedback in testing.
10. JETS
What does it do? JETS doesn’t fly but it guides things that do fly — and go boom. Joint Effects Targeting System offers soldiers a portable system to more quickly call for precision artillery fire.
How heavy is it? Total: 17 pounds, including tripod. The Handheld Target Location Module will weigh a max of 5.5 pounds. Supporting capabilities include a Precision Azimuth and Vertical Angle Module and a Laser Marker Module, which may or may not be needed depending on the environment.
When might you have one? Limited rollout targeted for 2018, with broader fielding to follow. The end-goal will be fielding one per platoon.
The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS)
The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) (Photo: Army)
Why should you care? You want to destroy something with artillery — quickly and accurately. At an operational post, the 37-pound Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinder offers a similar capacity. But JETS offers dismounted, mobile troops the same capability, albeit at slightly less range (2,500 meters in the day, 1,000 meters at night for JETS vs. 4,600 and 1,500 for LLDR). The hand-held HTLM can tell you distance from a target. With that, GPS can determine the location, while a celestial compass on HTLM or, if it’s cloudy, the PAVAM (which can oscillate on the ground, sense the movement of the earth and determine what is precisely North) can add in orientation. That’s enough to send an exact target location to artillery, circumventing a process to call in accurate artillery fire that currently takes 15-18 minutes. Plus, it aids accuracy, dramatically lowering the odds of what effectively becomes a misplaced warning shot that scatters the enemy. LMM offers another capability: the ability to stay locked onto a moving target. By keeping the LMM laser fixed on the target, the artillery shell can adjust in-flight (albeit limited to much more gentle turns than a missile, obviously) to the shifting target location.
Will this actually happen? Almost certainly, if not right on time. Two companies (BAE and DRS) have competing models and testing has been done; it’s a top priority for both PEO Soldier and the Fires Center of Excellence, as well as soldiers, according to Lt. Col. Micheal Frank, project manager for soldier maneuver sensors, who expects a contract to be awarded by the end of September. Frank called it Fires Center of Excellence commander Maj. Gen. John Rossi’s “No. 1 baby.” That said the timeline is “aggressive,” Frank said, so any setbacks could cause delay.
11. ENVG-III
What does it do? The third iteration of Enhanced Night Vision Goggles let you see at night, with improvements over ENVG-II, including a wider field that can detect thermal signatures, as well as better resolution and battery life. http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/tech/2015/07/23/new-technology-link-night-vision-and-rifle-scope/30536237/
How heavy is it? Just under 2 pounds, roughly the same as ENVG-II.
When might you get one? Early 2017. The Army has already fielded 9,000 ENVG, and 16,000 more ENVG-II. It plans to begin rolling out gradual purchases of ENVG-III (41,000 in all) over the next few years, with a goal of each infantry platoon fielding 24.
Why should you care? ENVG-III, like the ENVG-II, still allows soldiers to choose between old-school night vision (green-tinted enhancement of visible light), thermal (infrared), hybrid (fuses both), and a hybrid where thermal images show up with an outline for better definition. In other words, if it lives, it glows, and smoke or fog won’t hide it. The ENVG-III extends the thermal capabilities to a 35 degree field of view (most of the goggle’s 40-degree range). The ENVG-II had a smaller thermal-capable section in the middle of that 40-degree field; the edges only enhance visible light (traditional green-screen night vision). Also, ENVG-III offers double the resolution as ENVG-II (640x480 as opposed to 320x240) with smaller pixels (17 microns to 12). The whole package, including the battery pack, also features a sleeker design. And while the requirement of 7.5 hours of continuous use remains the same, soldier testing has indicated these newer models’ battery life lasts up to 10 hours.
Will this actually happen? Yes. This is an advance on existing technologies, it has tested well, and there are two companies on contract (BAE and DRS) to produce compatible systems as well as a fielding timeline. As with any new gear, subject to budget constraints. But barring calamity, soldiers will continue to be issued night vision goggles in the field (only soon ENVG-III rather than ENVG-II) as the Army buys them, since they provide incredible advantages in the field.
12. FWS-I
What does it do? Family of Weapon Sights-Individual sends a night-vision camera feed from your rifle scope (M4 carbine rifle or M249 light machine gun) directly to your face, through ENVG-III.http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/tech/2015/07/23/new-technology-link-night-vision-and-rifle-scope/30536237/
How heavy is it? Between 1 and 1.5 pounds.
When might you have one? Starting sometime in 2019. This summer a limited quantity will be made for soldier testing. Eventually the goal is to give 18 to each infantry platoon.
Why should you care? A soldier wants to identify threats and acquire targets quickly. The thermal-capable rifle scope sends a wireless signal of what it sees to a processor in the back of the helmet that’s wired to the ENVG (both are removable for daytime operations). A soldier has three imagery options in how the FWS image displays: The gun scope's image overlaid on the ENVG view (Crosshairs and a circle distinguish the rifle scope view from the overall view), picture-in-picture (rifle scope’s image remains stationary in the corner, while the rest of the view is from the ENVG), or scope image only (soldiers can simply relay the rifle’s image direct to the goggle, ignoring the broader ENVG image.) That means soldiers can aim their rifle while retaining a full 40-degree peripheral view of what’s in front of them to maintain situational awareness, rather than a traditional rifle scope, which closes the keyhole to 18-26 degrees. They can also look around corners without exposing more than their gun. The sight has a thermal imaging range of 1,000 meters, nearly double most thermal rifle scopes. They can also aim their rifle precisely without raising it to eye level. The signal from helmet to scope should also prove difficult to jam since it’ very short-range with low power emittance.
Will this actually happen? There’s a very good chance. There are working models, it’s a program of record, and it’s fairly tied into the ENVG program. Again, situational-awareness is crucial, so the landscape would have to change substantially to derail plans.
13. FWS-CS
What does it do? The crew serviced version of FWS was specially designed for all your machine gun needs (M240 7.62mm, and M2 .50-caliber). It allows even longer-range, IR-capable precision. In Hi-Def.
How heavy is it? The requirement sets a max of 3.25 pounds.
When might you have one? 2021. There has already been limited testing; initial low-rate production is slated for 2019.
Why should you care? This is the first high-definition thermal weapon sight for dismounted soldiers. It will offer, at worst, 1280x1920 resolution, and will have a thermal-capable range of 2,400 meters. So if it emits heat from within about a mile and a half, you can see it and shoot it precisely, even with smoke or fog. There’s also a laser range-finder in the sight that can align the crosshairs based on range, weapon and ammo. There is a specialized goggle, simpler than ENVG-III and without the full 40-degree-wide field of view. But it still shows the soldier what the scope sees via wireless connection, so the soldier can aim without getting his face right behind the machine gun’s sights. Battery life minimum, per requirements, is 3.5 hours of continuous use, with a spare giving 7 hours for the standard 72-hour mission requirement.
Will this actually happen? Probably. It’s further out than FWS-I and that adds a layer of uncertainty, but this does exist and the Army has been testing on a limited basis — to generally rave reviews according to Lt. Col. Tim Fuller, project manager for soldier maneuver sensors.
14. FWS-S
What does it do? FWS-Sniper is a clip-on that allows a sniper infrared capabilities, all while still being able to use their favorite daytime scope. The add-on clips to the sniper rifle right in front of the regular optic.
How heavy is it? Less than 10 ounces.
When might you have one? 2021; there has already been limited testing; initial low-rate production is slated for 2019.
Why should you care? A sniper doesn’t necessarily like the idea of removing his optic to switch to a thermal one, Fuller said, even if you promise he won’t have to zero the rifle again. So this allows the same optic to do the zoom-in work while the clip-on adds the IR layer for night missions. The Army has worked to leverage research in organic light-emitting diodes (OLED): an LED that’s an organic compound that emits light in response to a current, in this case a display of IR detection. That puts the benefits of thermal sights into a sniper’s hands without messing with a favorite scope. There’s also a wired remote so the sniper doesn’t have to adjust focus on FWS-S by reaching all the way to the front of the optic.
Will this actually happen? It has a parallel production and fielding schedule to FWS-CS, and probably similar odds of coming to fruition.
15. Pocket-drones
What does it do? "Soldier Borne Sensors" are essentially pocket-sized drones that can give a squad eyes in the air. What will likely look like a toy will provide crucial situational awareness.
How heavy is it? The drone itself will max out at 150 grams, while the entire system — controls, battery and charger — will weigh 3 pounds at most.
When might you have one? By 2018.
Why should you care? Because you don’t like surprises, and might want to take a look over the next hill or around a building or wall without an immediate risk of someone (or several someones) shooting at you. The British and Norwegians have used Black Hornet P-100 drones in Afghanistan for years, but the Army wants to go bigger with mass distribution to dismounted squads. The Army hopes an increasingly competitive industry can offer the following minimum capabilities at a fraction of the six-figure price-tag per PD-100: Max weight 150 grams, deployable within 60 seconds, camera that can detect human-sized object within 50-75 feet 90 percent of the time, wind tolerance of 10-15 knots, and range of 500-1,200 meters.
Will this actually happen? Probably. After market research and an industry day, Fuller said the Army has a decent idea of what’s possible, and is optimistic. Now it’s a matter of getting the right partners together to make a functional, mass-producible product that reliably gets the job done at an affordable price.
16. Lightning Pack Rucksack Harvester
What does it do? This kinetic rucksack turns your bouncing rucksack into a power-generator. Incidentally, that harvesting of energy naturally offers a bit of shock absorption.
How heavy is it? Currently about 11.2 pounds, but maker Lightning Packs and PEO Soldier are still working to reduce weight and increase efficiency. Eventually it’s expected to weigh less than 10 pounds.
When might you have one? Around 2019 at the earliest; maybe 2020. User evaluations are scheduled for mid-to-late 2017.
Why should you care? While adding weight to a ruck sounds awful, reducing jostling and generating power has appeal. While walking (or running) a regular backpack moves up and down, and each time it comes down, the body has to catch it, creating strain greater than the mere weight of the pack. The Lightning Pack, when unlocked (toggled by push of a button), allows the pack to slide up and down rails between the pack and the rack — which acts as shock absorption to reduce jostling, and also captures power. Walking at 2.5 mph creates 4 watts, and at 3.5 mph about 40 watts.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. The product is still being refined, with an effort to make it more productive, lighter and less bulky. (The gap created between pack and back pushes the load back slightly and therefore gives it more leverage against the soldier). In the end, the Army will have to weigh whether the mission-extending power and shock absorption outweigh the weight and cost of the system.
17. Wearable Solar
What does it do? Rests face up on your rucksack and collects a sliver of the sun’s bountiful energy as you walk (or if you just leave your rucksack sitting on the ground).
How heavy is it? Roughly one pound or less.
When might you have one? 2019-2020. It is tracking on the same timeline as the Lightning Pack, with user testing in 2017.
Why should you care? With Nett Warrior and a variety of other tech needs, a soldier needs power. This offers energy generation in a panel for minimal weight. It generates 40 watts at full sun. The current prototype, which simply ties to the top of a rucksack, is gallium arsenide; that’s unlikely to be a final solution because of the material’s expense. A cheaper material like silicon is more likely.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. As with the Lightning Pack, the question becomes whether costs are justified by the energy-production capacity. That depends on advancement of the technology.
18. Knee harvester
What does it do? It doesn’t harvest knees; instead this device, which looks like a knee brace, harvests the work legs do and converts it into energy.
How heavy is it? About 2 pounds per knee, currently.
When might you have one? 2019 at the earliest.
Why should you care? It’s another way to create energy for soldiers, extending a mission’s expiration date. In this case the device generates about 7-12 watts per knee at 3-4 mph. Since it’s harvesting energy there’s naturally a bit of resistance, so soldiers might not like the sound of that. But the resistance is designed to be minimal, and also has an upside in that the inherent deceleration can save some energy for the soldier walking downhill.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. It depends on if the (electric) juice is worth the squeeze. It’s hard to imagine adding a degree of difficulty to repetitive movement for a few watts, but science isn’t always intuitive.
Senior reporter Michelle Tan contributed to this report.
Naturally, there’s a lot of differences, too. In five years, there will be more, and 15 years, more still, as the Army works to keep the technological edge of the dismounted combat troop.
As wide-ranging as they are, both near-term and long-term advances sought by the Army reveal some emerging themes.
•The Army wants soldiers better protected, but also lighter and more agile.
•The Army wants better situational awareness, including improved vision at night.
•The Army wants to empower smaller units with more portable versions of tech now available to higher echelons.
But what about your guns? Improvements may be more incremental. Physics have limits and so do budgets. But the Army is upgrading carbines with a more reliable barrel, it has picked out a new sniper rifle and it is working to do the same for a new handgun.
These improvements come from a variety of sources, including the Army’s Research, Engineering and Development Command (working closely with industry and academia), the Maneuver Center of Excellence (infused with ideas direct from the battlefield) and of course Program Executive Office Soldier, which develops prototypes and procures field equipment as technological advances become available.
The result: an Army constantly developing and prioritizing new gear to make the dismounted soldier safer and more lethal. Here are just some of the programs underway that could mean new gear to the front lines — sooner than you think.
1. M4A1
What does it do? Long-distance hole-punch. (It’s the latest version of your M4 carbine rifle.)
How heavy is it? Unloaded and without accessories: 7.74 pounds
When might you have one? You might already. The upgrade of M4s (and replacement of M16s) is around a quarter complete and will continue until roughly 2020.
Why should you care?The upgrade offers a heavier barrel; some soldiers reported M4s overheating, becoming warped and then jamming during extended use, particularly in Afghanistan. It also adds ambidextrous safety controls and converts the weapon’s three-round burst option into fully-automatic.
Will this actually happen? Yes. Here's what won't happen, however: The Army also ran a market survey in March 2015 for additional M4 upgrades dubbed M4A1+. Ideas included: an extended Picatinny rail, a floating barrel for enhanced accuracy, and an optional sniper-style single-stage trigger for marksmen, flash suppressor, removable sights, and more neutral colors, among a variety of other enhancements. But the “plus” died with the survey; there’s currently no formal requirements, program of record nor funding.
2. XM17 (Modular Handgun System)
What does it do? This will replace the Beretta M9 as the Army’s sidearm.
How heavy is it? The 351-page requirement document does not specify a weight, but presumably similar weight to a standard striker-style handgun, between 1.5 and 2 pounds.
When might you have one? The Army plans for full-rate production in 2018.
Why should you care? The Army has used an iteration of the M9 as its standard sidearm since 1985. The new pistol will feature better modularity, ergonomics, and accuracy. The requirements require a striker-style firing mechanism. The modular aspect will include ability to adjust grip size, and to add accessories via a Picatinny rail. The competition is open caliber, so the 9mm NATO standard round could be upsized to a .40 or a .45 caliber weapon. In addition the Army, which has stuck with full metal jackets for decades, has not ruled out hollow-point or fragmenting ammunition.
Will this actually happen? Probably. But not definitely. Companies (the Army won’t say how many) have submitted their candidates for the contract for the Army to evaluate, so the wheels are in motion. But that was also true of the Individual Carbine program canceled in 2013, and soldiers still carry M4s with no replacement plans in sight. Complaints of cost/waste have already emerged: Army Chief Gen. Mark Milley quipped he could find a new pistol with $17 million and a trip to Cabela’s, and Sen. John McCain slammed the MHS program in his series of “Americas Most Wasted” reports. If such complaints intensify in a tight budget environment, the Army could pull the plug.
3. Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System
What does it do? It shoots people from far away. The Army has selected a variant of Heckler & Koch’s G28 for the role, replacing the M110.
How heavy is it? Roughly 12.7 pounds, or 3 pounds lighter than the M110.
When might you have one? 2016-2018. For the next 24 months, the Army will conduct production qualification testing and operational testing to ensure the rifles meet requirements. If they pass, they’ll move to full-rate production and fielding.
Why should you care? Because you like your marksmen to have sniper rifles as good or better than their current ones, but smaller and lighter. The Army wanted a rifle that was easier to use in close quarters that also offered better ergonomics, accuracy and reliability.
Will this actually happen? Almost certainly. The contract’s been awarded, so if the 30 rifles H&K provide for testing prove as effective as the ones tested, the Army will buy up to 3,643.
4. XM25
What does it do? The XM25 grenade launcher and its five-25mm grenade magazine offers a programmable round and fire control.
How heavy is it? Roughly 14 pounds, unloaded.
When might you have one? Perhaps as soon as 2017. Assuming funding (which the Army has requested for the coming fiscal year) and testing stay on track.
Why should you care? This stand-alone weapon offers the ability to set a laser on a target, gauge distance automatically, program a grenade to go that distance (with manual adjustments) and fire the grenade. Fire control takes into account various ballistics and environmental factors to aid accuracy, as do magnified optical and thermal sights. In short, aim at a wall, push a button to program the point you want the grenade to explode. From there, aim fire. The 25mm grenade is designed to explode right where you told it to, from up to 500-600 meters away.
Will this actually happen? More likely than not. It’s been in the pipeline for years; it was pulled from the battlefield in Afghanistan in 2013 due to injury-causing malfunctions. The company and Army hope the kinks are worked out: it’s a program of record recently named in the 2017 budget as a priority that meets a critical capability gap, so this isn’t far out.
5. IRAP (Increase Range Anti-Personnel)
What does it do? Along with the separate XM25 weapon, the Army is pursuing a new 40mm grenade cartridge that can be fired by the M320, one with better range and accuracy as well as advanced fuze functionality (when and why it explodes).
How heavy is it? Roughly the same as an M433 grenade round.
When might you have one? It is planned to start as a program of record (a funded weapons program) in 2017.
Why should you care? The IRAP rolled in the technology from the Small Arms Grenade Munition smart grenade, which can sense a wall or building or obstacle and then automatically explode just after passing it. SAGM required no pre-programming; just point your standard grenade launcher and shoot. The requirements from a December market survey indicate the Army wants increased range, lethality and accuracy as well as increased fuze functionality and versatility compared to the M433. The survey asked vendors what would trigger an airburst or explosion, and whether any other equipment like fire control would be needed for a demonstration.
Will this actually happen? With plans to become a program of record next year: very likely. The Army says the round is not competing against the XM25 — although every defense dollar is competing against every other defense dollar, especially in at least a relatively similar functionality. Unlike the XM25, SAGM doesn’t require the Army to buy new guns. If the price-tag doesn't vary too much from standard grenades, it’d be easy to imagine this supplementing or supplanting those purchases. Even if not, the Army still sounds like it's fairly committed, though no solicitation has been issued.
6. XM1112
What does it do? Designed for the M320 grenade launcher, the XM1112 is a 40mm airburst non-lethal munition. The round has a fuel enriched pyrotechnic payload, proximity air burst, and selectable delay option fuse. It is capable of a flash-bang effect, which causes visual and sound impairment.
It can be used for force protection, clearing, patrols, crowd control and offensive or defensive operations.
How heavy is it? About half a pound.
When might you have one? The rounds are scheduled to be fielded in fiscal year 2018.
Why should you care? This less-lethal round provides soldiers with a significant increase in standoff range compared with the currently fielded 40mm non-lethal rounds. The new XM1112 gives soldiers 300 meters of standoff, compared with the current 50 meters provided by the non-lethal rounds already in the force.
This new capability also helps minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage while giving soldiers more flexibility during escalation of force and in non-combat environments.
Will this actually happen? It looks really good, but fielding also depends on Army priorities and resourcing strategy.
7. XM1116 (non-lethal round)
What does it do? This non-lethal extended range marking munition is designed for the 12-gauge shotgun. It can be used for force protection, crowd control, patrols and at checkpoints. It is similar to a bean bag round, and it marks its target so soldiers can later identify or capture the person they were targeting.
How heavy is it? 1.43 ounces.
When might you have one? The Army is slated to field the XM1116 in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018.
Why should you care? The 12-gauge XM1116 provides an improved capability that allows soldiers to employ non-lethal marking capabilities at an effective range of 30 to 50 meters. This additional capability helps minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage while giving soldiers more flexibility during escalation of force and in non-combat environments.
Will this actually happen? Most probably, but it also depends on Army priorities and resourcing strategy.
8. Integrated Head Protection System/Light Weight Army Combat Helmet
What do they do? Protect your dome. And in the case of the Integrated Head Protection System, also your jaw. And neck. And eyes. And hearing.
How heavy is it? Unclear, but lighter than your current combat helmet, in both cases, especially the Light Weight Advanced Combat Helmet.
When might you have one? The IHPS could arrive by the end of 2018. The LWACH is slated to start arriving at DLA in early 2017.
Why should you care? PEO Soldier has been working on a more comprehensive helmet with a more comfortable fit. Like a number of Army programs, modularity will play a role, with a soldier able to remove the a jaw protection element and a face shield as well as attach accessories to the helmet. Overall the helmet will have better fragmentation, ballistic and impact effectiveness. Current designs also feature ability to add ballistic appliques to the helmet, which provide additional protection. Meanwhile, the LWACH offers an even lighter-weight alternative to the ACH.
Will this actually happen? Seems likely. The Army has worked on the system for three years. The IHPS, the more heavy-duty and involved version, is currently in source-selection (the Army is picking a manufacturer). Meanwhile the LWACH just needs to pass some qualification testing.
9. TEP a.k.a. better body armor
What does it do? Stops/slows bullets and shrapnel, without slowing the soldier quite so much. Components of the Torso and Extremities Protection system — such as the Ballistic Combat Shirt and Modular Scalable Vest — will offer protection of the Army’s heavy-duty body armor, only at a lighter weight and with better range of motion.
How heavy is it? Roughly 23 pounds loaded up with heavy plates (assuming medium size).
When might you have one? Most of the Armor should field around 2019, with new plates sometime thereafter.
Why should you care? Because you like the protection of the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (31 pounds, fully loaded) but think it could be lighter and less obstructive. The ballistic shirt consists of protection on the upper back, upper chest and neck, while completely covering the arms with ballistic/protective sleeves. That eliminates the bulky IOTV shoulder pads. The vest also offers similar protection at a lighter weight, thanks to new materials, and carries all the same plates as the IOTV. The Army is also developing new plates (the heaviest part) that are roughly 7 percent lighter than current plates for the same protection. They also allow for modularity to cater to different protection levels and body types. In addition, an outer-wear pelvic protector offers the same protection as the two-part system soldiers currently use, only, again, lighter and more agile. Meanwhile, a Load Distribution System consists of a ballistic combat belt that flows underneath the vest and a load-bearing spine that distributes weight to the waist rather than putting it all on the shoulders.
Will this actually happen? Most likely, yes. The armor has cleared the engineering and development phases last summer and has generated positive soldier feedback in testing.
10. JETS
What does it do? JETS doesn’t fly but it guides things that do fly — and go boom. Joint Effects Targeting System offers soldiers a portable system to more quickly call for precision artillery fire.
How heavy is it? Total: 17 pounds, including tripod. The Handheld Target Location Module will weigh a max of 5.5 pounds. Supporting capabilities include a Precision Azimuth and Vertical Angle Module and a Laser Marker Module, which may or may not be needed depending on the environment.
When might you have one? Limited rollout targeted for 2018, with broader fielding to follow. The end-goal will be fielding one per platoon.
Will this actually happen? Most likely, yes. The armor has cleared the engineering and development phases last summer and has generated positive soldier feedback in testing.
10. JETS
What does it do? JETS doesn’t fly but it guides things that do fly — and go boom. Joint Effects Targeting System offers soldiers a portable system to more quickly call for precision artillery fire.
How heavy is it? Total: 17 pounds, including tripod. The Handheld Target Location Module will weigh a max of 5.5 pounds. Supporting capabilities include a Precision Azimuth and Vertical Angle Module and a Laser Marker Module, which may or may not be needed depending on the environment.
When might you have one? Limited rollout targeted for 2018, with broader fielding to follow. The end-goal will be fielding one per platoon.
The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS)
The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) (Photo: Army)
Why should you care? You want to destroy something with artillery — quickly and accurately. At an operational post, the 37-pound Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinder offers a similar capacity. But JETS offers dismounted, mobile troops the same capability, albeit at slightly less range (2,500 meters in the day, 1,000 meters at night for JETS vs. 4,600 and 1,500 for LLDR). The hand-held HTLM can tell you distance from a target. With that, GPS can determine the location, while a celestial compass on HTLM or, if it’s cloudy, the PAVAM (which can oscillate on the ground, sense the movement of the earth and determine what is precisely North) can add in orientation. That’s enough to send an exact target location to artillery, circumventing a process to call in accurate artillery fire that currently takes 15-18 minutes. Plus, it aids accuracy, dramatically lowering the odds of what effectively becomes a misplaced warning shot that scatters the enemy. LMM offers another capability: the ability to stay locked onto a moving target. By keeping the LMM laser fixed on the target, the artillery shell can adjust in-flight (albeit limited to much more gentle turns than a missile, obviously) to the shifting target location.
Will this actually happen? Almost certainly, if not right on time. Two companies (BAE and DRS) have competing models and testing has been done; it’s a top priority for both PEO Soldier and the Fires Center of Excellence, as well as soldiers, according to Lt. Col. Micheal Frank, project manager for soldier maneuver sensors, who expects a contract to be awarded by the end of September. Frank called it Fires Center of Excellence commander Maj. Gen. John Rossi’s “No. 1 baby.” That said the timeline is “aggressive,” Frank said, so any setbacks could cause delay.
11. ENVG-III
What does it do? The third iteration of Enhanced Night Vision Goggles let you see at night, with improvements over ENVG-II, including a wider field that can detect thermal signatures, as well as better resolution and battery life. http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/tech/2015/07/23/new-technology-link-night-vision-and-rifle-scope/30536237/
How heavy is it? Just under 2 pounds, roughly the same as ENVG-II.
When might you get one? Early 2017. The Army has already fielded 9,000 ENVG, and 16,000 more ENVG-II. It plans to begin rolling out gradual purchases of ENVG-III (41,000 in all) over the next few years, with a goal of each infantry platoon fielding 24.
Why should you care? ENVG-III, like the ENVG-II, still allows soldiers to choose between old-school night vision (green-tinted enhancement of visible light), thermal (infrared), hybrid (fuses both), and a hybrid where thermal images show up with an outline for better definition. In other words, if it lives, it glows, and smoke or fog won’t hide it. The ENVG-III extends the thermal capabilities to a 35 degree field of view (most of the goggle’s 40-degree range). The ENVG-II had a smaller thermal-capable section in the middle of that 40-degree field; the edges only enhance visible light (traditional green-screen night vision). Also, ENVG-III offers double the resolution as ENVG-II (640x480 as opposed to 320x240) with smaller pixels (17 microns to 12). The whole package, including the battery pack, also features a sleeker design. And while the requirement of 7.5 hours of continuous use remains the same, soldier testing has indicated these newer models’ battery life lasts up to 10 hours.
Will this actually happen? Yes. This is an advance on existing technologies, it has tested well, and there are two companies on contract (BAE and DRS) to produce compatible systems as well as a fielding timeline. As with any new gear, subject to budget constraints. But barring calamity, soldiers will continue to be issued night vision goggles in the field (only soon ENVG-III rather than ENVG-II) as the Army buys them, since they provide incredible advantages in the field.
12. FWS-I
What does it do? Family of Weapon Sights-Individual sends a night-vision camera feed from your rifle scope (M4 carbine rifle or M249 light machine gun) directly to your face, through ENVG-III.http://www.armytimes.com/story/military/tech/2015/07/23/new-technology-link-night-vision-and-rifle-scope/30536237/
How heavy is it? Between 1 and 1.5 pounds.
When might you have one? Starting sometime in 2019. This summer a limited quantity will be made for soldier testing. Eventually the goal is to give 18 to each infantry platoon.
Why should you care? A soldier wants to identify threats and acquire targets quickly. The thermal-capable rifle scope sends a wireless signal of what it sees to a processor in the back of the helmet that’s wired to the ENVG (both are removable for daytime operations). A soldier has three imagery options in how the FWS image displays: The gun scope's image overlaid on the ENVG view (Crosshairs and a circle distinguish the rifle scope view from the overall view), picture-in-picture (rifle scope’s image remains stationary in the corner, while the rest of the view is from the ENVG), or scope image only (soldiers can simply relay the rifle’s image direct to the goggle, ignoring the broader ENVG image.) That means soldiers can aim their rifle while retaining a full 40-degree peripheral view of what’s in front of them to maintain situational awareness, rather than a traditional rifle scope, which closes the keyhole to 18-26 degrees. They can also look around corners without exposing more than their gun. The sight has a thermal imaging range of 1,000 meters, nearly double most thermal rifle scopes. They can also aim their rifle precisely without raising it to eye level. The signal from helmet to scope should also prove difficult to jam since it’ very short-range with low power emittance.
Will this actually happen? There’s a very good chance. There are working models, it’s a program of record, and it’s fairly tied into the ENVG program. Again, situational-awareness is crucial, so the landscape would have to change substantially to derail plans.
13. FWS-CS
What does it do? The crew serviced version of FWS was specially designed for all your machine gun needs (M240 7.62mm, and M2 .50-caliber). It allows even longer-range, IR-capable precision. In Hi-Def.
How heavy is it? The requirement sets a max of 3.25 pounds.
When might you have one? 2021. There has already been limited testing; initial low-rate production is slated for 2019.
Why should you care? This is the first high-definition thermal weapon sight for dismounted soldiers. It will offer, at worst, 1280x1920 resolution, and will have a thermal-capable range of 2,400 meters. So if it emits heat from within about a mile and a half, you can see it and shoot it precisely, even with smoke or fog. There’s also a laser range-finder in the sight that can align the crosshairs based on range, weapon and ammo. There is a specialized goggle, simpler than ENVG-III and without the full 40-degree-wide field of view. But it still shows the soldier what the scope sees via wireless connection, so the soldier can aim without getting his face right behind the machine gun’s sights. Battery life minimum, per requirements, is 3.5 hours of continuous use, with a spare giving 7 hours for the standard 72-hour mission requirement.
Will this actually happen? Probably. It’s further out than FWS-I and that adds a layer of uncertainty, but this does exist and the Army has been testing on a limited basis — to generally rave reviews according to Lt. Col. Tim Fuller, project manager for soldier maneuver sensors.
14. FWS-S
What does it do? FWS-Sniper is a clip-on that allows a sniper infrared capabilities, all while still being able to use their favorite daytime scope. The add-on clips to the sniper rifle right in front of the regular optic.
How heavy is it? Less than 10 ounces.
When might you have one? 2021; there has already been limited testing; initial low-rate production is slated for 2019.
Why should you care? A sniper doesn’t necessarily like the idea of removing his optic to switch to a thermal one, Fuller said, even if you promise he won’t have to zero the rifle again. So this allows the same optic to do the zoom-in work while the clip-on adds the IR layer for night missions. The Army has worked to leverage research in organic light-emitting diodes (OLED): an LED that’s an organic compound that emits light in response to a current, in this case a display of IR detection. That puts the benefits of thermal sights into a sniper’s hands without messing with a favorite scope. There’s also a wired remote so the sniper doesn’t have to adjust focus on FWS-S by reaching all the way to the front of the optic.
Will this actually happen? It has a parallel production and fielding schedule to FWS-CS, and probably similar odds of coming to fruition.
15. Pocket-drones
What does it do? "Soldier Borne Sensors" are essentially pocket-sized drones that can give a squad eyes in the air. What will likely look like a toy will provide crucial situational awareness.
How heavy is it? The drone itself will max out at 150 grams, while the entire system — controls, battery and charger — will weigh 3 pounds at most.
When might you have one? By 2018.
Why should you care? Because you don’t like surprises, and might want to take a look over the next hill or around a building or wall without an immediate risk of someone (or several someones) shooting at you. The British and Norwegians have used Black Hornet P-100 drones in Afghanistan for years, but the Army wants to go bigger with mass distribution to dismounted squads. The Army hopes an increasingly competitive industry can offer the following minimum capabilities at a fraction of the six-figure price-tag per PD-100: Max weight 150 grams, deployable within 60 seconds, camera that can detect human-sized object within 50-75 feet 90 percent of the time, wind tolerance of 10-15 knots, and range of 500-1,200 meters.
Will this actually happen? Probably. After market research and an industry day, Fuller said the Army has a decent idea of what’s possible, and is optimistic. Now it’s a matter of getting the right partners together to make a functional, mass-producible product that reliably gets the job done at an affordable price.
16. Lightning Pack Rucksack Harvester
What does it do? This kinetic rucksack turns your bouncing rucksack into a power-generator. Incidentally, that harvesting of energy naturally offers a bit of shock absorption.
How heavy is it? Currently about 11.2 pounds, but maker Lightning Packs and PEO Soldier are still working to reduce weight and increase efficiency. Eventually it’s expected to weigh less than 10 pounds.
When might you have one? Around 2019 at the earliest; maybe 2020. User evaluations are scheduled for mid-to-late 2017.
Why should you care? While adding weight to a ruck sounds awful, reducing jostling and generating power has appeal. While walking (or running) a regular backpack moves up and down, and each time it comes down, the body has to catch it, creating strain greater than the mere weight of the pack. The Lightning Pack, when unlocked (toggled by push of a button), allows the pack to slide up and down rails between the pack and the rack — which acts as shock absorption to reduce jostling, and also captures power. Walking at 2.5 mph creates 4 watts, and at 3.5 mph about 40 watts.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. The product is still being refined, with an effort to make it more productive, lighter and less bulky. (The gap created between pack and back pushes the load back slightly and therefore gives it more leverage against the soldier). In the end, the Army will have to weigh whether the mission-extending power and shock absorption outweigh the weight and cost of the system.
17. Wearable Solar
What does it do? Rests face up on your rucksack and collects a sliver of the sun’s bountiful energy as you walk (or if you just leave your rucksack sitting on the ground).
How heavy is it? Roughly one pound or less.
When might you have one? 2019-2020. It is tracking on the same timeline as the Lightning Pack, with user testing in 2017.
Why should you care? With Nett Warrior and a variety of other tech needs, a soldier needs power. This offers energy generation in a panel for minimal weight. It generates 40 watts at full sun. The current prototype, which simply ties to the top of a rucksack, is gallium arsenide; that’s unlikely to be a final solution because of the material’s expense. A cheaper material like silicon is more likely.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. As with the Lightning Pack, the question becomes whether costs are justified by the energy-production capacity. That depends on advancement of the technology.
18. Knee harvester
What does it do? It doesn’t harvest knees; instead this device, which looks like a knee brace, harvests the work legs do and converts it into energy.
How heavy is it? About 2 pounds per knee, currently.
When might you have one? 2019 at the earliest.
Why should you care? It’s another way to create energy for soldiers, extending a mission’s expiration date. In this case the device generates about 7-12 watts per knee at 3-4 mph. Since it’s harvesting energy there’s naturally a bit of resistance, so soldiers might not like the sound of that. But the resistance is designed to be minimal, and also has an upside in that the inherent deceleration can save some energy for the soldier walking downhill.
Will this actually happen? Maybe. It depends on if the (electric) juice is worth the squeeze. It’s hard to imagine adding a degree of difficulty to repetitive movement for a few watts, but science isn’t always intuitive.
Senior reporter Michelle Tan contributed to this report.
18 ways the Army wants to make you deadlier
Posted from armytimes.comPosted in these groups: 
Innovation
Technology
Innovation Technology
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 7
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That's a lot of things they want to use to improve combat skills and survival.
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SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL
SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth the good ole Army improving with technology.
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Capt Daniel Goodman
I follow, I do try to stay aware of such aspects, I've found the AUSA magazine and the USNI Proceedings both quite good, as well, AUSA obv I'd expect ypoid see regularly, if you haven't looked at the latter, it'd be quite worth your while, honest if I can suggest others as well, I'll try, of course.
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