FCS successfully tests NLOS-C Firing Platform

The Future Combat Systems program recently tested the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon Firing Platform – an ultralightweight, 38-caliber, fully automated 155-mm howitzer featuring a fully automated ammunition handling system integrated onto a tracked chassis. Testing will continue through 2008, when preproduction units are scheduled to be delivered to the U.S. Army. (Yuma Proving Ground photo)

Future Combat Systems last week at the Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona successfully test-fired the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon Firing Platform being developed by BAE Systems.

The firing platform is an ultralightweight, 38-caliber, fully automated 155-mm howitzer featuring a fully automated ammunition handling system integrated onto a tracked chassis. The test launched an official firing platform testing and evaluation program that will run through 2008.

"We are committed to delivering the world's best capabilities to our joint warfighters in a timely fashion," said Dennis Muilenburg, FCS vice president and program manager. "The recent test activities and ongoing development work are evidence the program is on schedule and performing effectively."

The program will continue single-round firing tests with the firing platform during the coming weeks. Those tests will be followed by rate-of-fire testing to demonstrate the effectiveness of the NLOS cannon's automation system, which will give soldiers the capability to fire a four-round Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact mission with the push of a button.

The NLOS-C is the first vehicle in the FCS program's fleet of eight variants of manned ground vehicles. Preproduction units are scheduled to be delivered to the U.S. Army by the end of 2008.