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Shaping a More Lethal, Lighter and Tactical Force at JPMRC

Thursday, October 24th, 2024

SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii — To provide leaders and the combined joint force a lethal division, the 25th Infantry Division’s primary focus is tailored to employ large-scale combat operations, commitment to readiness, and deployment of combat credible forces.

Consistent building and deployment of readiness are achieved through four points: Transformation in Contact, Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) Hawaii, Operation Pathways and JPMRC X (Exportable).

JPMRC is the Army’s newest combat training center and generates readiness in the environments and conditions where our forces are likely to operate. JPMRC 25-01 includes training participants from the U.S. joint forces, all Army components and multinational allies and partners.

The Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, Gen. James J. Mingus, observed JPMRC training events on Oahu with the 25th Infantry Division and the 196th Infantry Brigade, where he was hosted by the division’s commanding general, Maj. Gen. Marcus Evans.

Evans emphasizes the importance of the JPMRC exercise in fostering joint operations.

“We are using JPMRC and our Warfighter Exercise in December to validate our transformation in contact construct with the 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team along with those lessons learned from 101st Airborne and 10th Mountain Division,” he said. “Innovation never stops at our level. We are in a relentless pursuit of excellence and strive to get 1% better every day.”

Through the campaign of learning, the 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team (2LBCT) sets to validate the division’s Transformation in Contact efforts during this year’s JPMRC iteration.

From 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team, Multiple Variants of the Silent Tactical Energy Enhanced Dismount (STEED), Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET), Skydio X10D Drone and Thales Modular Universal Battery Charger are all essential pieces of equipment being used to hone and improve the division’s warfighting capabilities.

Mingus observed training aimed at testing the division’s capabilities to respond to complex operational scenarios. JPMRC serves as an essential platform for evaluating the Army’s ability to operate effectively across multiple domains, including land, air, and cyber.

“The 25th Infantry Division is a critical component of our efforts in the Pacific,” Mingus said. “Readiness and partnership with our multinational partners are vital as we navigate an evolving landscape.”

The exercise involves service members from various branches of the U.S. military and multinational allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific Region, all engaged in live, virtual, and constructive training components, which generates a realistic and challenging experience for all participants.

After conducting a JPMRC rotation or training event, the Theater Army projects combat-credible forces, through Operation Pathways, forward into the Indo-Pacific and Asia. Operation Pathways is the United States Army Pacific’s operational approach to campaigning that applies readiness of combat-credible forces to build joint readiness, strengthen interoperability with our Allies and partners, and deny key terrain – human and physical — to our adversaries.

By SSG Brenden Delgado

Posted in Army, Guest Post | Comments Off on Shaping a More Lethal, Lighter and Tactical Force at JPMRC

Army Special Operations To Create New Robotics Specialty

Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024

USASOC has been experimenting with robotics for several years, as seen in this image of 1st SFG(A) Green Berets during Project Origin at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah. Despite Army Special Operations leaders discussing the idea of creating a specific robotics careerfield within SOF for years, details are still scarce on this new plan, which could see its first training class as early as 2025.

Most recently USASOC Command Sergeant Major JoAnn Naumann told students at a SOCOM Ignite event at MIT, that the command is creating a new Military Occupational Specialty.

“Special operations is leading the Army by creating a new MOS this year for technology, innovation and integration – a new MOS that does not exist in the Army,” said Naumann. “We’re creating it because we realized that we need it. We will have people whose job is to think about these kinds of problems, build prototypes and then help us once we get the technology integrated into the battlefield and make it work in real-world scenarios.”

The details we’ve uncovered are that the paperwork to create the new MOS is currently at the Department of the Army staff and is expected to be approved by the end of the calendar year. Selection from the force could begin soon after, with the initial training course early in 2025.

The MOS designation is 390A meaning it’s going to be a warrant officer MOS. It’s a novel approach to the challenge and we are told it is for two reasons.

First, there are many within the Army’s SOF formation who have chosen unconventional paths including working with unmanned systems, robotics, and other technologies. They are valuable to the force in these niche roles and there are concerns about losing their expertise as they get passed over for not checking the blocks.

The second reason is that a few years ago Congress gave DoD additional authorities to direct commission those with technical experience of interest to the service. This will allow USASOC to not only recruit talent within house, but also look to industry and academia for the right people.

While no MOS name has been mentioned, it may likely be “Robotics and Unmanned Systems Technician”. This guess is based upon the six week Robotics and Unmanned Systems Integrator Course currently taught as an advanced skill to select SOF at USAJFKSWCS. However, SOF leaders have widely acknowledged that other, emerging technologies are required by their forces.

CMF 39 is of note, simply because it was once used as a Functional Area designation for Civil Affairs officers before it became a branch and adopted MOS 38A. It seems to have become a spare, somewhat under the purview of ARSOF. Joining CMFs 18 (Special Forces), 37 (Psychological Operations), and 38 (Civil Affairs), its reactivation bodes well for the creation of dedicated Cyber, Space, Fires, and other enlisted specialties for technical SOF enablers. Robotics systems are platforms and using their payloads generally requires additional technical expertise.

While the Navy beat them to it by creating a rate for unmanned systems last year, so far RM Sailors haven’t been integrated into the SOF formation. The creation of this MOS is something entirely new, not only for SOF, but all across the Army. They are seeking technicians who will integrate new capabilities. Although these aren’t SOF operator positions, many of the initial cadre will come from SF, Rangers, and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. This will assuredly open doors as they integrate into SOF operations. While we’re unsure how USASOC plans to employ them and where they’ll fit into the organization, or will have their own unit, it’s a move that is a good investment in transformation and the future.

While this new MOS is currently destined to support ARSOF, within the Army there have discussions of creating a Robotics branch. A few years ago during the Maneuver Conference a plan was briefed to create MOS 19R, a non-accessions MOS which would accept volunteers at skill levels two and up from CMFs 11 (Infantry) and 19 (Armor). The plan had skill level 5 (E8 & E9) robotics Soldiers serving as 19Zs or Armor Senior Sergeants.

The difference between SOF’s robotics requirement and the other maneuver branches of the Army is about size. Like their current force structure, armor and infantry units have armored vehicles and in the future will integrate remotely operated and autonomous armored vehicles. SOF will mainly use smaller, very specialized systems like the Ghost Robotics Quadraped Unmanned Ground Vehicle seen above. Some of the tools will be the same across the force, but as taught in the RUSIC training mentioned earlier, SOF students learn to use innovation and additive manufacturing to locally produce specialized payloads for unmanned systems.

With USASOC working toward adoption of a formal requirement for a family of ground robotics and having already heavily adopted Small unmanned Aerial Systems across the formation, this move is the right one. Hopefully, they will create enlisted MOSs for other technical enabler positions.

We expect the Army will follow SOF’s lead and adopt the right systems for the larger force. Hopefully, they’ll implement dedicated personnel from inception as well.

– Story by Eric Graves, Editor

Top photo by Jerome Aliotta, US Army

Quadraped photo by Zachary Rufus, DoD

Posted in Army, Profession of Arms, SOF | 2 Comments »

AUSA 24 – SIG SAUER XM250 with Quick Change Barrel

Monday, October 21st, 2024

This is an XM250 in 6.8x51mm. Essentially, it’s the same Automatic Rifle the Army adopted under the Next Generation Squad Weapons program with one exception, it has a quick change barrel. That feature, makes it quite suitable to fulfill the role as a sustained fire, belt-fed machine gun.

This isn’t a new characteristic. It was part of the original design, but the Army didn’t want a quick change barrel as part of NGSW. So, in order to save weight, it was left off. This version of the SIG light machine gun is referred to as the “World” configuration as it is how the gun is marketed to everyone else, except the US Army.

What Makes It Different

As you can see, it is configured here with no top cover over the barrel to facilitate quick barrel changes. However, SIG tells me there is a hinged cover available, as seen on the MG338.

The barrel is locked in place via two buttons. It can’t be removed or secured in place without simultaneously depressing the rocker and secondary locks. Additionally, the plunger must be depressed to fully engage the handle lock.

Here you can see the lugs on the barrel which lock the barrel into the receiver.

Why It Matters Now

The Squad Arms and Ammunition Configuration study led to the development of the 6.8 cartridge and Next Generation Squad Weapons. Afterwards, a study was conducted for the Platoon called, aptly enough, the PAAC study. Although it was completed well over a year ago, Army leaders continue to evaluate the study’s findings to decide on a path forward.

One of the key decisions is how to proceed regarding a machine gun for the platoon. Options under discussion include adopting the 6.8 common cartridge architecture for the role, as well as seeking out an additional cartridge such as the 338 Norma Mag option currently under adoption by USSOCOM.

Regardless of the caliber choice, fielding of the initial XM250 Automatic Rifles to the first units is already highlighting the disparity between the new 6.8 round and its 7.62 predecessor. The current M240s are heavier, offer reduced range and lower delivered energy on target than NGSW.

As of right now, NGSW is only intended for the close combat force consisting of Infantry, Cav Scouts, Combat Engineers, SOF, and select enablers. That means there are just over 13,000 XM250s being fielded to replace M249 SAWs in those formations. This leaves tens of thousands of SAWs across the Army. Chances are good, those will be replaced with XM250s over the coming years. However, the issue is even larger for the M240. No matter the desired course of action for caliber of choice post-PAAC study decision, the Army has to decide what to do with the ~120,000 M240s in inventory.

Many have suggested that they simply reconfigure them to fire the new composite case 6.8X51mm. The thought process is that the Army already owns them and they are serial numbers on the books; no need to buy new guns.

Considering the number of guns involved, it will easily take five years or more to develop a barrel and operating system capable of reliable, long-term firing of the high pressure 6.8 cartridge and to actually reconfigure the guns. It is likely that up to 20% of the guns currently in service ought to be coded out and replaced. They are old and have seen a lot of service over the past 30 years. If the Army does, in fact need all 120,000 guns, that means they’ll have to purchase more M240s to replace the worn-out examples of an almost 70-year-old design. Detractors of this plan ask why the Army would want to buy more old guns that they’ve already decided to replace.

Adoption of a new gun for the sustained fire role is likely a more cost effective solution in the long-term. If the Army desires to transition to 338 NM that has to happen because there’s no gun currently in the inventory to do it. If they don’t, one option is to pure fleet the XM250, with quick change barrels, replacing both M249 SAWs and M240 MGs. In many ways, it’s an easy button. This moves all belt-fed guns to one caliber and one platform across the formation, simplifying doctrine, employment, training and logistics. It also makes the entire force more lethal, and reliable, with new guns which will last longer than modified legacy guns. It’s also a faster option than starting a new program.

No matter the near-term path forward, a version of the XM250 with quick change barrel will inevitably enter Army service.

Posted in Advertiser, Army, AUSA, weapons | 15 Comments »

After a Year of Development, Army Releases Blue Book

Saturday, October 19th, 2024

WASHINGTON — During the “Leading Change Brief” at the annual AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington D.C. on Oct. 15, 2024, Sgt. Maj. of the Army, Michael A. Weimer, announced the U.S. Army has completed and released a digital Blue Book with a companion website. The Blue Book development was announced at last year’s AUSA Annual Meeting.

“You can’t build standards and discipline in a time of crisis,” Weimer said last year. “If we’re really going to be truly ready for large-scale combat operations, we have to have those standards and discipline before we get called upon for that.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Raymond S. Harris, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, was tasked to lead the Blue Book development.

“To meet the SMA’s intent, we had to ensure that we created a digital version that can be accessed anywhere at any time on any device and that is what the team was able to do,” Harris said.

The purpose of the Army Blue Book is to support history, heritage, lineage, and standards and discipline while simultaneously reinforcing trust at echelon and strengthening the Army profession. The book also includes commonly violated or misunderstood standards. The Blue Book is based on the original intent of Baron von Steuben’s Regulations for the Order and Discipline of the Troops of the United States and will serve as the base for all unit standards books to create commonality and consistency throughout the Army.

The TRADOC team traveled to several installations across the Army to gather input for the Blue Book. “We wanted to hear from the force during Blue Book development,” said Sgt. Maj. Tyson Crosby, TRADOC Enlisted Initiatives Group and Blue Book lead planner. “We traveled to five installations, engaging with students and cadre from our Non-commissioned Officer Academies. We also solicitated input and insight from senior Army leaders.”

Although TRADOC was tasked with developing the Blue Book, Crosby said they wanted to ensure NCOs outside of TRADOC had input as well.

“The Blue Book mission was not a singular effort. We received great input and feedback from across the Army, making it a collaborative work. The Blue Book is for the entire Army and our overall plan reflects that,” Crosby said.

The final version of the Blue Book is 23 pages (three chapters), designed to be the first three chapters of a unit-level Blue Book. Once a user opens the Army Blue Book through the QR code, they can download the Blue Book PWA using the phones settings, which will create an app on the phone’s screen. In terms of useability, this will act no differently than app from an application store

Through Army University, TRADOC also developed a progressive web application centered around “Strengthening the Profession.” The webapp will serve as a leadership development and Army professionalism hub. It will also give users the ability to print a Blue Book PDF version. The Strengthening the Profession site will be contemporary and user friendly and will include hot topics, links to relevant sites, and professional articles all relevant to strengthening the Army profession and leadership. TRADOC will be the proponent of the site with regular reviews and updates.

The webapp can function like a native, downloadable app from an application store, but will require a QR code or the weblink to access first. When on the site, users can download the app that will take them directly to the site.

“The Army Blue Book was best developed as a PWA,” stated Matthew MacLaughlin, Army University’s mobile division chief. “The instructional designers determined how the info in the book would be optimized for the format, and then the computer scientists built the framework to ensure the execution is seamless and for all screen sizes.”

He added that while native applications have their place, the PWA format for publications allows for faster updates and provide a native-app experience for the user. The website can detect the user’s device type and will format accordingly.

Weimer said the Blue Book is for living by a standard and enforcing that standard amongst teams that are preparing for combat.

“Be disciplined and be brilliant at the basics,” Weimer said.

TRADOC will review the Blue Book content often and conduct updates as necessary.

The new Blue Book can be viewed online through the Central Army Registry website.

By SGM Jason Stadel

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Profession of Arms | 2 Comments »

GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle Extended Range UAS Supports Army Vanguard Demos

Wednesday, October 16th, 2024

SAN DIEGO – 15 October 2024 – As part of the U.S. Army’s Vanguard demonstrations that took place in Fort Huachuca, Arizona, on Sept. 17–18, 2024, a Gray Eagle Extended Range (GE-ER) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) provided by the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) showcased several new capabilities, including the integration of an Expeditionary Cyber Chassis (ECC) for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) and Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) with Communications Intelligence (COMINT) and Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) radios from Silvus Technologies.

Sponsored by Col. Danielle Medaglia, Product Manager for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, and operated by U.S. Army Soldiers, the GE-ER successfully demonstrated data relay and voice communication over significant distances, extending the range, quality, and speed of data exchanges for ground units. The demonstration also verified the capability of relaying video and chat messages between ground users equipped with Silvus 4200 MANET radios, highlighting the progress being made in enhancing tactical communications and situational awareness.

While utilizing the COMINT system, Gray Eagle was able to detect stationary and moving targets at significant ranges and provide data for analysis to expeditionary intelligence cells. This expansion of Gray Eagle capabilities is due to its open architecture, which exemplifies the Army’s Transformation in Contact (TIC) concept. The Army benefits by using an existing system to reduce risk and impacts while gaining new capabilities without the prolonged timelines of an acquisition new start.

“We’re excited to work with our Army customer to increase the relevance and capabilities of the GE-ER platform,” said Chris MacFarland, sector vice president of Strategic Development for Army Programs. “These efforts of Vanguard to demonstrate new capabilities hosted on CMOSS hardware will improve the Army’s premier UAS platform in supporting advanced UAS operations.”

Built by GA-ASI and operated by the U.S. Army, the GE-ER participating in the exercise represents the future capabilities of the Gray Eagle 25M’s open architecture design, allowing for rapid integration of vendor-agnostic sensors, radios, and payloads needed for Multi-Domain Operations. The ability to fully integrate internally mounted long-range sensors and launched effects, while controlling them with modernized laptop ground control systems, significantly enhances its survivability and lethality. Along with advanced data links, resilient GPS navigation systems, and an upgraded propulsion system, the GE 25M is resilient to electronic threats when deployed in expeditionary and austere locations.

Posted in Army, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on GA-ASI’s Gray Eagle Extended Range UAS Supports Army Vanguard Demos

AI/ML Workshop: Advances Tech for Future Operations

Saturday, October 12th, 2024

USARPAC participates in AI/ML

U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) continues to operate in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region; it has placed a strong emphasis on integrating cutting-edge technology to maintain military dominance and address the evolving geopolitical landscape. The recent technological advancements within USARPAC reflect a deep commitment to strengthening communication, command and control (C2), and operational mobility in challenging environments.

The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) workshop on Oct. 2, 2024, represents a significant step forward in enhancing USARPAC’s capabilities through AI-driven innovation.

The Pacific theater is a crucial arena for global security, requiring advanced technological solutions to ensure rapid response, efficient decision-making, and seamless coordination across military branches and with our allies and partners in the region.

As part of its ongoing modernization, USARPAC has embraced several key innovations, most notably the Integrated Tactical Network (ITN), Tactical Cross Domain Solutions (TCDS), and cutting-edge communication systems.

“So right now, we need an AI solution that allows us to go through those documents at a much, much more rapid pace,” said Col. Alton J. Johnson, Assistant Chief of Staff for USARPAC, who spoke during the workshop.

These tools are essential for maintaining situational awareness and operational functionality in diverse and complex environments, from dense jungles to remote islands.

USARPAC’s focus on improving mobility and communication is evident in its use of ITN, which allows commanders to communicate effectively in remote areas without relying on traditional infrastructure. The self-healing, self-forming nature of systems like radios ensures robust connectivity even in rugged and difficult-to-navigate terrains. These advancements have played a critical role in joint military exercises in the Philippines and Indonesia, where they helped overcome terrain-based communication challenges.

Joint and combined operations remain central to USARPAC’s mission, and its technological advances have enabled seamless cooperation with allies such as Japan, Australia, and South Korea.

The use of Tactical Cross Domain Solutions (TCDS) and Link 16 tactical data networks facilitates real-time data sharing and enhances interoperability between land, air and naval forces. These systems allow for more coordinated and effective joint fire operations, making USARPAC a leader in coalition force integration.

During the AI and Machine Learning workshop USARPAC is set to explore the next frontier of military technology: harnessing AI to revolutionize military operations. This exclusive event, bringing together thought leaders from institutions such as the Maui High Performance Computing Center, U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. Army Pacific, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Intel and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), will provide insights into the transformative potential of AI and Generative AI within the Department of Defense (DoD).

“As we prepare for tomorrow’s battles, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like AI will be critical in safeguarding U.S. interests and promoting regional stability in the Indo-Pacific,” said Maj. Justin James, U.S. Army Pacific G-6 Operations, Branch Chief, in reference to the AI/ML workshop.

AI and ML technologies are rapidly advancing across the defense sector, with generative AI being hailed as a game-changer for the military. These innovations are enhancing capabilities in intelligence analysis, C2 decision-making, and autonomous systems, improving mission outcomes, operational efficiency and force safety.

The secondary wave of AI maturation is opening new doors to more sophisticated tools that can process and analyze vast amounts of data, optimize mission planning, and support complex, multi-domain operations.

The upcoming AI/ML workshop will showcase how these tools are already reshaping military functionality. For example, AI-enhanced decision support systems are making it possible to analyze battlefield data in real-time, enabling faster, more accurate command decisions.

AI-powered autonomous systems are being integrated to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions, reducing risks to personnel while ensuring that commanders have the intelligence needed to execute operations effectively.

The workshop will also emphasize how USARPAC is preparing for future operational challenges in the Pacific theater by leveraging AI-driven solutions. From maintaining control over vast oceanic distances to ensuring secure and timely communications, the insights gained from this event will equip USARPAC with the tools needed to stay ahead in an increasingly contested and technologically advanced environment.

“USARPAC’s commitment to innovation ensures that we remain at the forefront of military advancements, working closely with industry and academic partners to deliver transformative capabilities,” said James.

The partnership between industry, academia and military leaders will be crucial in shaping the AI/ML solutions that will define the next generation of defense technology.

USARPAC’s technological advancements demonstrate its leadership in ensuring that U.S. military forces remain agile, adaptive and prepared for the challenges of the Pacific theater. By integrating advanced communication systems, enhancing operational mobility, and fostering coalition partnerships, USARPAC is well-positioned to maintain dominance in this critical region.

The AI/MLworkshop further cements USARPAC’s commitment to innovation, offering a glimpse into how AI-driven technologies will revolutionize military operations in the coming years. With a focus on enhancing decision-making, optimizing mission outcomes, and safeguarding U.S. interests, USARPAC’s embrace of AI/ML ensures that it will remain at the forefront of military technological innovation.

By SPC Taylor Gray

Posted in AI / ML, Army, Guest Post | Comments Off on AI/ML Workshop: Advances Tech for Future Operations

Innovation Lab Opens at Fort Drum

Friday, October 11th, 2024

FORT DRUM, N.Y. – The 10th Mountain Division proves through its evolution and challenging formation that it is possible for change to occur. Even in its conception, birthed from the need to change how we fight, Soldiers are at the forefront of that change and in a celebrating tradition the division continues that legacy by opening the Mountain Innovation and Systems Integration Lab, which signifies bringing solutions to the Soldier’s hands, so they can become a reality.

“When I think about innovation, I think about the bottom up,” Maj. Gen. Scott Naumann, Commanding General of the 10th Mountain Division (LI), said during his opening remarks.” I think about unlocking the potential of our Soldiers.”

The new Mountain Innovation and Systems Integration Lab or MISIL opened its doors to Fort Drum on October 3, 2024. In a Grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony, this lab is now available for all of Fort Drum and 10th Mountain Division units.

Project members of the Catalyst Pathfinder program, as well as Maj. Gen. Scott Naumann, gave speeches prior to witnessing 1st Lt. Cameron Tomczyk, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, cut the ribbon.

Soldiers will have access to various equipment and people, who will help make their ideas real.

“The mission of the Catalyst Pathfinder program is to bring together Soldiers, engineers and researchers,” said Dr. Arwen DeCostonza, the program’s manager. “To quickly solve problems and challenges identified by the Soldiers within other military units.”

The division will find common ground at Fort Drum’s new lab with inclusive systems and machinery. Soldiers, now, have a place of their own to invent or produce solutions for a constantly changing battlefield. It is the legacy and honorable passing of the torch to continue the evolutionary transformation of the 10th Mountain Division into a more formidable and lethal fighting force.

“Our whole process is centered around understanding Soldier needs,” Dr. Arwen continues. “Understanding Soldier’s ideas to solve their needs, fosters bottom-up innovation.”

MISIL offers assistance in software, 3-D printing, woodwork, Computer Numerical Control or CNC Machine and other various ways to build solutions to how the division fights.

The Soldier understands problems best, and is always told to adapt, improvise and overcome the problems they are faced with. MISIL brings a Soldier’s ideas into practice with the experts they need to solve problems at their level.

“There are two things that this lab is fantastic for, rapid advancement changes and the second is bringing solutions from the bottom up,” Tomczyk said. “We are able to quickly address the friction with those systems with the knowledge we directly have at our level.”

Soldiers are at the forefront in creating change, driving innovation and sparking a lasting impression.

The MISIL provides an opportunity for Soldiers for diverse units to improvise, adapt and overcome challenges.

Today marks the grand opening of a Soldier’s laboratory, where they can use all three to solve a problem.

Photo by SSG Osvaldo Martinez

Posted in Army, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

JPEO Armaments & Ammunition Cuts Ribbon on New 155mm Metal Parts Facility

Wednesday, October 9th, 2024

INGERSOLL, Canada — The U.S. Army’s Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments and Ammunition (JPEO A&A) hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the IMT Precision Production Facility, a new 155mm metal parts production facility that will produce 15,000 shell bodies per month, in Ingersoll, Canada, on Wednesday, October 2. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Canadian and U.S Army, elected officials from the Town of Ingersoll, and industry leaders.

“Thanks to the U.S. Congress and Department of Defense’s confidence in our efforts, we are writing a new chapter and investing billions in our defense industrial base,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John T. Reim, Joint Program Executive Officer for Armaments and Ammunition. “Back in May, we opened a new metal parts facility in Mesquite, Texas and in the month of October we will be conducting ribbon cutting ceremonies for new propelling charge facilities in Marion, Illinois and Perry, Florida and a new load assemble pack facility in Camden, Arkansas. This IMT Precision Facility, with its new and advanced forging, furnaces, non-destructive testing, and machining capabilities, is further proof of that progress.”

The newly commissioned facility will be operated by the IMT Group and is a critical component of the U.S. Army’s 155mm production ramp up. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the facility incorporates advanced automation, digital data capture, and high flexibility in its production lines and serves to bolster the defense industrial base.

IMT Group CEO, Cheryl Hacking, discussed the company’s long history supporting the defense industry. “Our history of service with the defence industry dates back to the First World War,” said Hacking who noted that IMT was one of the original ‘bomb girls’ facilities. “We are proud to be a part of that important history that made us uniquely suited for this project. And when the U.S. Army was able to move at lightning speed to respond to global events, we were able to respond in kind.”

According to Reim, the IMT Precision facility is one piece of a larger puzzle aimed at increasing the U.S. Army’s overall production capacity for 155mm artillery munitions and will assist the Army to be able to reach its goal of producing 100,000 artillery shots per month by fiscal year 2026.

“Victory on the battlefield begins in facilities like the one we are in today,” said Reim. “This is a mission we cannot afford to fail. Our two nations, two close allies and steadfast partners, continue to stand united in our commitment to deter would be adversaries’ intent on doing us harm. Millions of lives depend on our ability to deliver these munitions safely into the hands of our warfighters.”

The production lines will primarily produce metal parts for the currently fielded M795 as well as the Army’s new ‘go to war round’, the M1128, which boasts a 33% increase in its range and is capable of striking targets up to 30 km away.

“Every shell that rolls off this production line is a testament to the trust our nations place in each other,” Reim added. “Trust that we can deter aggression. Trust that when called upon, our two militaries are equipped to fight and win our nation’s wars.”

Reim also reflected on a recent tour of the Scranton, Pennsylvania Army Ammunition Plant with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “President Zelenskyy thanked the workers and said, ‘The 400 people here saved the lives of millions in Ukraine.’ His words should serve as a reminder that what we do matters not just for one nation, but for millions across the globe.”

Ingersoll Mayor, Brian Petrie, welcomed the partnership between the Town of Ingersoll, IMT, and the U.S. Government. “The opening of the IMT Precision Production Facility marks a significant milestone in our Town’s ongoing partnership with IMT and the U.S. Government,” said Petrie. “This collaboration not only strengthens Ingersoll’s position as a key player in advanced manufacturing but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in supporting global security. Together, we are building a future that promotes innovation, creates local jobs, and contributes to the defence capabilities of our allied nations.”

Reim concluded by thanking the people and government of Canada for their warm hospitality and ongoing support. “There is no challenge too great, no adversary too strong, and no cause more just than ensuring that our future generations inherit a safer, stronger and freer world. We are fortunate to call you our neighbors and I look forward to strengthening our bond even further.”

By ABRAAM DAWOUD

Posted in Ammo, Army, Guest Post | Comments Off on JPEO Armaments & Ammunition Cuts Ribbon on New 155mm Metal Parts Facility