Discover and read the best of Twitter Threads about #omfv
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The BAE Systems RB301 – a rolling test lab for innovation (mature OMFV tech) fitted with UT30Mk2, IronFist, IronVision.
#AUSA2021 #OMFV @BAESystemsInc
#AUSA2021 #OMFV @BAESystemsInc
Jim Miller said "The Army’s approach to the Bradley-replacement program focused on transformational characteristics required a new vehicle design rather than building off an existing platform.
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With the way that OMFV is currently structured and the approach that’s been laid out by the Army, we believe that this is a new vehicle design project. This is not really achievable by modifying an existing vehicle,”
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The #OMFV industry day last week provided some clarity and a few new angles on the requirement. A few highlights and thoughts below
(Image an old NGCV concept art, not from recent industry day)
(Image an old NGCV concept art, not from recent industry day)
Unsurprising desire to prioritise survivability, stated as #1 priority. At this stage specifics are unclear, but for contemporary ATGM/KE you need APS, ERA & some rather fancy composites. Even then overmatch will be tough in conjunction with mobility/transportability aspirations
Firepower requirements to engage infantry up to tanks, and helicopters. So an ATGM essential, and high elevation cannon. Given need for unmanend turret (see further down), could mean high profile turret, or loss of swept volume inside vehicle to allow that big 50 mm to elevate
In an industry briefing for its re-booted Next Generation Optionally Manned Combat Vehicle solicitiation, the US Army has told vendors the most important requirement for its future IFV is protection. The previous requirement for two OMFVs to fit in a C-17 has been relaxed. #OMFV
Even though contenders can now offer vehicles in the 40+ tonne weight class, it seems unlikely that anyone will offer a heavy IFV like the Israeli 60-tonne Namer. This is because vehicles in this weight class are too difficult to deploy and support in an expeditionary scenario.
The change in OMFV specifications will re-open the competition to BAE System's 5th generation CV90 (a big leap forward) and KMW's Puma, Rhenimetall's KF41 Lynx and Hanwha's AS21 Redback.
As was widely reported before the weekend, the Industry Day for #OMFV has revealed more detail on the latest attempt to replace Bradley. A few initial observations
I did a very brief run through of the history of these attempts previously (bit.ly/3etUkdc) for those seeking background. Suffice to say its been a long and challenging road
Approach will notionally be 5 vendors providing initial designs, then 3 detailed designs & prototypes, followed by contract award to one vendor for LRIP/FRP. Can they get 5 bids? Last OMFV attempt couldn’t muster 3
Bundestag's budgetary committe approved the next phase of the joint Franco/German #MGCS next-gen MBT programme last week. (Source: bit.ly/2vFPEzk), an important step in their joint efforts for a future #EuroTank.
This is the 2-year system architecture definition phase, which will harmonise the countries requirements and lay the groundwork to alllow early prototype system demonstrators to be manufactured from mid-2023.
Plan is for a 2035 initial fielding, which is quite an aggressive timescale for contemporary procurement, especially if this is to be a true basis for a 'next-gen' platform and not just a highly modernised Leopard 2/Leclerc hybrid.
