Marine Corps Light Armored Vehicle Anti-Tank prototypes are in the middle of developmental tests of upgrades which may extend their lives for many years to come back. The modernization program is taking shape at various sites during the country.
Development of the LAV-ATs has already successfully met threshold testing as four of the prototypes have fired 14 missiles at government facilities. In mid-March, the vehicles were put through a swim test and landing craft air cushion tests on the Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch at Camp Pendleton, Calif.
“The LAV-AT modernization program is designed to enhance mission effectiveness and supportability for Marines,” said Col. Mark Brinkman, LAV program manager.
Embedded of their original design, LAVs combine speed, maneuverability and firepower to accomplish quite a number functions, including security, command and control, reconnaissance and assault.
“They can operate on land and in water, carry communications equipment and supply a weapons platform,” Brinkman said. “The LAV isn’t just portion of a combined arms force—it is one.”
In upcoming tests, the LAV-ATs will engage in electromagnetic environmental effects developmental tests at Redstone Arsenal, Ala., and reliability, availability and maintainability, and function tests at Yuma Proving Grounds, Ariz.
“The LAV has proved its worth since initial fielding in 1983,” Brinkman said. “The Marine Corps is committed to making sure this platform remains viable until at the least 2035.”
With the LAV’s future role for the Marine Corps in mind, government developmental tests started in December 2013. As of March 2014, no significant issues have surfaced. An operational assessment will follow developmental testing in late 2014. The initial production contract is anticipated to be awarded in September 2015.
In April 2012, the Marine Corps through Program Manager LAV awarded a freelance to develop and integrate an anti-tank weapon system on four LAV-ATs.
The new anti-tank weapon system, or ATWS, will fire the Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided/radio frequency family of missiles. The system uses the Modified Improved Target Acquisition System for sighting and fire-control functions.
The new ATWS turret system will provide an enhanced capability over the prevailing sighting system, in accordance with Brinkman. It should provide a second-generation forward looking infra-red, far target location and talent to obtain targets at the move. The ATWS system may have commonality with the already fielded Saber system to extend supportability and readiness within the field.
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