Over the years, many programs and projects have been developed by the United States Army. One of these was the Future Combat Systems (FCS). The multi-billion-dollar program was designed to replace the M-1 Abrams main combat tank and M-2 Bradley infantry fighter vehicle. The FCS program also envisaged the creation of new brigades with unmanned and manned vehicles. The program would also include a network information systems. The network would allow soldiers access to other systems and exchange data. It also provides situational awareness.
The FCS project was a huge research and development effort. It was designed to address the rapidly-evolving high-tech threats in the 21st Century. It included a series of eight manned ground vehicles and a network of technologies that would be used by Soldiers to carry out military missions more efficiently. There were several unmanned aircraft vehicles, a network sensors, and a number of next-generation weapon designs included in the program. Contractors have already tested some FCS prototypes. These vehicles include M777 howitzers and M109A7 self propelled howitzers measuring 155mm.
The Army plans to deploy a ground combat vehicle over the next few decades, despite the fact that many FCS system are still under development. Ground Combat Vehicle (GCV), an armoured light assault vehicle, can be controlled remotely and can carry 8,000 pounds of cargo. The vehicle will also be able to deploy a 120-mm weapon. It will also be capable of parasailing into position. It can also be used in a minesweeping configuration.
The MCS (Manned Combat System), which is the heart of FCS, is the most vital component. This vehicle can transport by C-130 aircraft and can fire a 120-mm caliber cannon that can shoot tank rounds. It is also capable of being remotely controlled, and will maintain a comparable survivability rate. It will be able to carry a 40mm firearm. After being controlled, it will be able to serve as a slave unit. It can be parasailed to position, making it a weapon against enemy units.
The program would also contain unmanned vehicles, such unattended ground sensor and Non-Line of Sight Launch System. These systems could detect biological and chemical materials as well as identify targets for other units. These systems could also be turned on and off to allow friendly troops or guards to move around the area.
The FCS program was a big undertaking, with many challenges. There were many issues with acquisition and contracting. It was also difficult for people to understand. Because of its advanced technologies, the program was considered high-risk. The program was projected to cost $340 Billion.
In 2007, the Pentagon announced that it was planning to reduce $236 millions from the FCS 2007–2011 budget. The Army had planned to deploy an experimental unit in 2008 to test the FCS technology. Also, the Army planned to deploy an experimental early-infantry brigade fighting team by 2012. This unit would have all 18 FCS units by 2014. It would be deployed in 2012.
Project Convergence is another joint Army-Boeing effort to create a variety a robotic units that will aid the Army during combat. These units will have the ability to move about the battlefield and disperse troops. They can also help in organizing the battle.