The U.S. Army has awarded General Dynamics Land Systems a $322.7 million contract to continue low-rate initial production (LRIP) of the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle, a new assault vehicle designed to enhance the capabilities of Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs).
The contract, which modifies a previous agreement (W56HZV-19-C-0036), was officially awarded on June 27.
According to a press release from General Dynamics, the M10 Booker, named after a distinguished American hero, is engineered to across various terrains, engaging and destroying enemy combatants. This vehicle is crucial for enabling freedom of movement and increasing survivability on the battlefield.
General Dynamics Land Systems has already delivered multiple M10 Booker vehicles to the Army as part of the LRIP phase, supporting government testing and logistics efforts. The M10 Booker features a four-person crew and is equipped with advanced technologies, including an enhanced thermal viewer, a large-caliber 105mm cannon, a lightweight hull and turret, and a modern diesel engine, transmission, and suspension system. The vehicle’s design allows for future capability upgrades, ensuring it can adapt to evolving operational needs.
Gordon Stein, Vice President and General Manager for U.S. Operations at General Dynamics Land Systems, emphasized the importance of the M10 Booker for IBCTs. “The M10 Booker provides IBCTs with a safe and effective platform to complete their mission – one that may include bunkers, machine guns, or armored vehicles. We are honored to continue to manufacture the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle,” said Stein.
The production work will be distributed across multiple locations, including Sterling Heights, Michigan; Anniston, Alabama; Lima, Ohio; Tallahassee, Florida; and Scranton, Pennsylvania, with an expected completion date of October 20, 2026.
While the M10 Booker is not officially classified as a tank by the Army, it shares many characteristics with traditional tanks, including its 105mm cannon and armor protection, making it a formidable asset on the battlefield.
© 2024, GDC. © GDC and www.globaldefensecorp.com. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to www.globaldefensecorp.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.