Armored System Modernization - Adv Dev

The Armored System Modernization - Advanced Development program is dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of ground combat vehicles in line with the Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) Army Modernization Priority. This initiative focuses on maturing emerging Science and Technology (S&T) and industry technologies for potential integration onto these vehicles. The primary aim is to demonstrate new capabilities that address both current and future military needs, while evaluating integration potential across the Army's portfolio of ground combat vehicles. A key aspect of this effort involves developing control stations essential for the Army Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) program.

The program's objectives include supporting virtual and physical concept development, conducting trade studies, and performing technical and operational analyses to assess future concepts and designs. These efforts are vital in identifying capability gaps, reducing integration risks, and ensuring that ground combat platforms align with the Army's modernization strategy. Additionally, the program supports survivability, lethality, and other soldier-defined system requirements through various technology demonstration efforts.

Key components involve Government Engineering & Program Management, Developmental Engineering, Test & Evaluation (T&E), and Experimental Prototyping. These activities include refining advanced technology concepts for ground combat vehicles, conducting performance analysis, trade space analysis, capabilities assessments, and hardware demonstrations. The focus also extends to maturing technologies such as the Advanced Combat Powertrain (ACP), which encompasses the Advanced Combat Engine (ACE) and Advanced Combat Transmission (ACT).

Congressional additions have been made to enhance specific aspects of armored vehicle modernization. These enhancements include improvements in engine subsystem designs for vehicle demonstrations under the Advanced Combat Engine initiative and advancements in Abrams Modernization efforts like unmanned turrets and hybrid electric drives. The program also evaluates integrating Hydro-Pneumatic Suspension Units onto Abrams chassis as part of the Next Generation Auxiliary Power Unit initiative.