Future Combat System (FCS) is the centerpiece of the Army's vision to transform into a fighting force that is more lethal, agile and rapidly deployable than any ground combat force in the world. As a key member of the FCS One Team, BAE Systems is providing critical FCS and Network-Centric Operations technologies, such as the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon (NLOS Cannon), Joint Tactical Radio System, and Adaptive Joint C4ISR Node, which give soldiers unmatched firepower, situational awareness and survivability.
BAE Systems is a key FCS teammate and is developing a common design architecture with network connectivity for the eight FCS Manned Ground Vehicles, as well as mission modules for the NLOS Cannon, Non-Line-of-Sight Mortar, Infantry Carrier Vehicle, Medical Vehicle, and Recovery and Maintenance Vehicle.
The MGV variants will be significantly smaller and lighter than the systems they replace, and are designed to fit into a C-130 airplane. The MGV family features a common platform design and unique mission modules with all the variants linked together by networked battle command. Within the common design team, BAE Systems has the lead for the following areas: crew stations, propulsion, armor, active protection, countermeasures, signature management and defensive armament. BAE Systems also is responsible for development of the software architecture and development environment for all variants as well as for the common elements of MGV design.
A first look at what FCS platforms could be, in 2003, BAE Systems built and fired the NLOS-C Concept Technology Demonstrator (CTD) in just six months. The CTD is a 23-ton, 155mm, self-propelled cannon used as a proof-of-principle test-bed. The CTD completed testing in February 2006 having fired more than 2000 rounds at Yuma Proving Ground. BAE Systems is integrating many of the highly advanced and proven systems and technologies developed through the NLOS-C CTD into other FCS MGVs.
