The Mobile Protected Firepower system features a new chassis design. According to Kevin Vernagus, GDLS Director for the MPF system, the turret is also new, but the interior and controls are similar to those of an Abrams tank.
The Army anticipates spending approximately $6 billion on the procurement process for the Mobile Protected Firepower system. It is estimated that the total life-cycle cost of the program will be around $17 billion.
The first production of the Mobile Protected Firepower system is scheduled to be delivered to the Army in late 2023, with an initial delivery of vehicles. The contract allows the Army to purchase an additional 70 vehicles during the early production phase, for a total cost of over $1.1 billion.
General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) was selected over competitor BAE Systems after delivering 12 prototypes to be evaluated by soldiers in the 82nd Airborne Division. Although the prototypes received positive feedback compared to its competitors, GDLS is working with the Army to address overheating issues that were experienced at the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.
The Army plans to purchase 504 Mobile Protected Firepower systems, which are intended to be in the service's inventory for at least 30 years. The majority of the procurement process is expected to be completed by 2035.
Source: Army Times
