Common Bridge Transporter (CBT) Recap

Common Bridge Transporter (CBT) Recap aims to enhance the Army's bridging capabilities by providing a modernized and survivable transport and launch vehicle for various bridging assets. The program's specific objectives include the procurement of the M1977A4 CBT, which features improved crew survivability, electrical and powertrain supportability, Long Term Armor Strategy (LTAS) compliant cab, new engine and transmission, air ride suspension, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and an updated electrical system to support current and future communications equipment and diagnostic/prognostics systems. This initiative supports the Multi-Role Bridge Company (MRBC), Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCT), Airborne Combat Engineer Companies within the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT-A), European Activity Set (EAS), and Army Prepositioned Stock sets. The program also aligns with Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, emphasizing its importance for homeland defense missions, domestic emergency responses, and military support to civil authorities.

The Common Bridge Transporter (CBT) Recap program underlines the Army's commitment to maintaining pace with supported combat units by ensuring that bridging formation assets are equipped with advanced transport and launch capabilities. The program's primary goal is to procure the M1977A4 CBT and M1064 Palletized Load System Trailer (PLST) as part of the Ribbon Bridge System. These assets are essential for transporting and launching the Bridge Erection Boat (BEB) and Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) Bays in the Multi-Role Bridge Company (MRBC). Additionally, the CBT serves as a transporter and launch vehicle for the Rapidly Emplaced Bridge System (REBS), supporting Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCT) and Airborne Combat Engineer Companies within the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT-A). The program's objectives include addressing obsolescence issues associated with currently fielded CBTs by providing key survivability enhancements such as a LTAS-compliant cab, new engine and transmission, air ride suspension, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and an updated electrical system to support current and future communications equipment and diagnostic/prognostics systems. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the Army's bridging capabilities in line with its operational requirements.