Posted on Aug 3, 2015
CW3 Kevin Storm
18.2K
43
20
9
9
0
The M109 Backbone of the Mechanized Artillery gets an upgrade with the addition of the new M109A7. I can recall seeing the A6 being fielded in the late 1980's, this is an old platform, most likely one of the oldest out there, and is project to go on till the 2050. That will make it a 90 year old platform. How old is too old when it comes to mechanized?
http://www.army.mil/article/146200/Army_accepts_delivery_of_first_M109A7_Self_Propelled_Howitzer_system/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s41mPivcztY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ8IugAc6Nc
Edited >1 y ago
Avatar feed
Responses: 10
CW3 Kevin Storm
5
5
0
One thing I noticed in the video, and maybe it was a prototype, was the lack of spades on the back of the Gun. Can any one explain the advantage of removing the spades?
(5)
Comment
(0)
SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM
SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM
>1 y
the system uses GPS and as system called AFCS and DRU don't want to give out the secret names on social media but I think you get the point maybe you can search it. but spades are not used any more CW3 because the system picks up displacement when it fires and adjust on stabilizers built into the track and hull, all theses systems work to together as we call it SHOT, MOVE and Communicate and most of all KILLS the target we use now use 13 digit grid system as well. Hit me hit up we will talk more, I've been on A1 through A6 and very interested in the future of the Artillery and were it is going and manning of the howitzers as well. Our future is the "KING OF BATTLE in combat without a massive killing machine that is better then our European partners we are not going to win the future battle on the battle field.
(4)
Reply
(0)
SSG Anthony Crum
SSG Anthony Crum
7 y
Shoot, Move, and Communicate
(0)
Reply
(0)
SSG Roy B.
SSG Roy B.
6 y
Make it lighter, comes with VMS,motion sensor,cause you still can go old school,hand cranking, (SUCKS!!!)With technology 2day, spades not necessary, I was on A6 for several years and even tought on it,we never used them, except 4 class environment, no more cammo netting either,that made me happier than the A/C on the A6
(1)
Reply
(0)
Avatar small
SGT James Elphick
5
5
0
This seems to be one of those times when "if it's not broke don't fix it" is holding true and actually working.
(5)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small
SSG Program Control Manager
4
4
0
It still does the job and it seems to be able to meet all requirements. Requirements are supposed to drive the acquisition of new systems, not just a desire to see more modern equipment.
(4)
Comment
(0)
Avatar small

Join nearly 2 million former and current members of the US military, just like you.

close