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Old 05-09-2017, 02:20 PM
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ArmySGT. ArmySGT. is offline
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In the short term I only expect two changes to the LAV-25 fundamentally for the Airborne. The brackets mentioned so that the LAV can be palletized for low velocity airdrop or LAPES (Low Altitude Parachute Extraction System). The second the radios. The 82nd being the 82nd is going to use their variant of SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground to Air Radio System) and probably some other dedicated digital systems like Blue Force Tracker.

Still why they passed on the Wiesel 2 I don't know. That was tested repeatedly. For Cavalry all it is missing is amphibious.

Pro's.
  • Common parts that are stocked and produced by suppliers currently.
  • Instituitional training for operators and maintainers to include simulators exist.
  • All systems and weapons are current and fielded with trainers, maintainers, and Master Gunners institutional programs in use.
  • Platform is current internationally with other NATO members increasing R&D and Institutional training base.
  • Cross Service training programs exist and a joint LAV Marine/Army can rapidly stand up.
  • Can carry a Squad or Section, reducing the number of chassis to transport one platoon to an objective with better unit cohesiveness.

Con's
  • Light Armored Vehicle, the threat environment has evolved since the LAV-25 was first fielded. IEDs and EFPs will do catastrophic damage this chassis and crew.
  • 25mm Chaingun is losing effectiveness to emerging "light" armored IFVs and Recon vehicles. The gun is going to have to be upgraded to 30mm, 35mm, or 40mm to be effective against peer threats.
  • No AT capability for the gunner. A stopgap is using the Javelin on a pintle mount such as the Dragon was once employed. This opens up that gunner to small arms fire, artillery or mortar fragments, and opens the interior to chemical agents or smoke.
  • Thermal signature is large and obvious with the front engine and elevated exhaust; something that has to be considered with peer systems using thermal viewers to identify and target our platforms.
  • Driver fatigue, this legacy system is uncomfortable on it's best day with alternate drivers a requirement on any long march.
  • The large size for a recon platform decreases effectiveness.
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