Intro
Learn about the US Armys plans to replace the Bradley Fighting Vehicle with a next-generation platform. Discover the key requirements, timelines, and contenders for the replacement program, and understand how the new vehicle will enhance the armys combat capabilities with advanced armor, firepower, and mobility solutions.
The US Army is on the cusp of a significant transformation, as it seeks to replace its aging Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) fleet with a more modern and capable platform. The Bradley, which has been in service since the 1980s, has been a stalwart of the Army's armored forces, but its limitations have become increasingly apparent in the face of evolving threats and technologies.
The Army's pursuit of a Bradley replacement program is part of a broader effort to modernize its armored forces and ensure that they remain relevant in the 21st century. The new vehicle is expected to play a critical role in the Army's future combat formations, providing infantrymen with the mobility, firepower, and protection they need to succeed on the battlefield.
The Need for a Replacement
The Bradley Fighting Vehicle has been a faithful servant of the US Army for over three decades, but its age is beginning to show. The vehicle's design dates back to the 1970s, and while it has undergone numerous upgrades and modernizations over the years, it is still limited by its original design constraints.
One of the primary drivers behind the Army's decision to replace the Bradley is its concern about the vehicle's vulnerability to modern anti-tank missiles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Bradley's armor is not sufficient to protect against these threats, and the vehicle's high profile makes it an attractive target for enemy gunners.
Another factor contributing to the need for a replacement is the Bradley's limited mobility and maneuverability. The vehicle's weight and size make it difficult to transport and deploy, and its aging powertrain and transmission limit its speed and agility on the battlefield.
The Next Generation Fighting Vehicle (NGFV) Program
In response to these challenges, the US Army has launched the Next Generation Fighting Vehicle (NGFV) program, which aims to develop a replacement for the Bradley that is better equipped to meet the demands of modern warfare. The NGFV program is part of a broader effort to modernize the Army's armored forces, which includes the development of new tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, and armored personnel carriers.
The NGFV program is focused on developing a vehicle that is more mobile, more lethal, and more survivable than the Bradley. The new vehicle is expected to be equipped with advanced armor and survivability systems, as well as improved mobility and maneuverability features.
Some of the key requirements for the NGFV include:
- Improved survivability against anti-tank missiles and IEDs
- Enhanced mobility and maneuverability
- Increased lethality, including the ability to engage and defeat enemy tanks and other armored vehicles
- Advanced sensors and communications systems
- Improved crew comfort and safety features
The Competition
The NGFV program has attracted interest from a number of major defense contractors, including BAE Systems, General Dynamics, and Lockheed Martin. Each of these companies has submitted proposals for a next-generation fighting vehicle that meets the Army's requirements.
BAE Systems has proposed a vehicle based on its CV90 infantry fighting vehicle, which is currently in service with a number of European armies. The CV90 is a highly mobile and maneuverable vehicle that is equipped with advanced armor and survivability systems.
General Dynamics has proposed a vehicle based on its Griffin III technology demonstrator, which was developed in partnership with the Army. The Griffin III features advanced armor and survivability systems, as well as improved mobility and maneuverability.
Lockheed Martin has proposed a vehicle based on its proposal for the Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, which was cancelled in 2009. The Lockheed Martin vehicle features advanced sensors and communications systems, as well as improved lethality and survivability.
The Future of the NGFV Program
The NGFV program is still in its early stages, and it will likely be several years before a contract is awarded to one of the competing contractors. However, the program represents an important step forward for the US Army, as it seeks to modernize its armored forces and ensure that they remain relevant in the 21st century.
As the NGFV program moves forward, it will be important to watch for developments in the areas of armor and survivability, mobility and maneuverability, and lethality and sensors. These areas will be critical to the success of the program, and will ultimately determine the effectiveness of the next-generation fighting vehicle on the battlefield.
Next Generation Fighting Vehicle Image Gallery
FAQs
What is the Next Generation Fighting Vehicle (NGFV) program?
+The NGFV program is a US Army initiative to develop a replacement for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. The new vehicle is expected to be more mobile, more lethal, and more survivable than the Bradley.
What are the key requirements for the NGFV?
+The key requirements for the NGFV include improved survivability against anti-tank missiles and IEDs, enhanced mobility and maneuverability, increased lethality, advanced sensors and communications systems, and improved crew comfort and safety features.
Which companies are competing for the NGFV contract?
+BAE Systems, General Dynamics, and Lockheed Martin are among the companies that have submitted proposals for the NGFV program.