US Army modernisation plans raise big concerns for lawmakers
Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. (Photo: US Army)
The implementation of the US Army Transformation Initiative (ATI) has been receiving criticism from Congress. Although it is intended to better prepare the service’s soldiers and inventory for tomorrow’s warfare, lawmakers have warned that this approach could negatively impact the national industry and the branch’s readiness.
The concerns relate to terminating multiple modernisation and acquisition programmes that the branch now considers outdated, late-to-market, overpriced, or difficult to maintain.
“Pursuing generational change on the cheap is risky business,” Mitch McConnell, chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Defence and Republican Senator from Kentucky, stated during a hearing early this month.
“My view
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
HIMARS rising: sales, industrial cooperation and missile tests are driving the weapon forward
Australia's milestone Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System test and a wave of fresh contracts and production ramp-ups highlight the building momentum behind long-range strike systems globally, with HIMARS leading the way.
-
Japanese wheeled combat vehicles: procurement driven by operational realities
Japan’s armoured forces are currently undergoing a doctrinal shift from tracked to wheeled vehicles. This represents a major change in the country’s force structure and armoured capabilities.
-
India’s drone industry ambitions accelerate with Xtend technology transfer deal
The localised production of interceptor and tactical drones further strengthens India-Israel industrial alignment and could position India for future cooperation opportunities.
-
US Army to procure next-gen remote sensing capabilities to boost battlefield mobility
The US Army Materiel Command is seeking solutions that can automatically detect and classify natural or man-made obstacles preventing the manoeuvrability of land vehicles.
-
Next-generation Franco-German tank under threat as France opts for interim solution
The French Army’s upgraded Leclerc main battle tank is expected to begin retiring before the end of the 2030s and the government is looking to adopt an interim solution ahead of a next-generation tank.