BAE Systems wins PIM contract
BAE Systems is to continue its work on the US Army’s Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) programme, following the award of a $313 million contract modification, announced 18 January 2012. The award will see BAE Systems providing additional engineering design, logistics development and test evaluation support to complete the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase of the PIM programme.
BAE Systems was awarded a $63.9 million research and development contract in August 2009 to produce five Self Propelled Howitzers and two Carrier, Ammunition, Tracked vehicles. The seven prototypes were delivered to the US Army, on schedule, in May 2011. The PIM programme will ensure the sustainability of the self-propelled howitzer fleet, and assist the US Army in supporting the testing and production planning efforts.
The PIM howitzer uses the existing main armament and cab structure of a Paladin M109A6 and replaces unique vehicle chassis components with modern components common to the Bradley family of vehicles incorporated in an improved and more survivable chassis structure. PIM incorporates a state-of the-art ‘digital backbone’ and power generation capability and integrates electric elevation and traverse drives, electric rammer and digital fire control system. The upgrade of the PIM ensures commonality with existing systems in the Heavy Brigade Combat Team, and reduces its logistical footprint and operational sustainability costs by replacing obsolete components.
The contract was awarded by US Army TACOM and is expected to begin in February 2012 with anticipated completion in January 2015.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Milrem THeMIS robot tests weapon firing to beyond one kilometre]()
Milrem THeMIS robot tests weapon firing to beyond one kilometre
The Milrem Robotics Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System (THeMIS) uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) has seen extensive service in Ukraine with an additional six ordered for Ukraine in May.
-
![Tests almost completed on German Army Wolf vehicles with deliveries soon]()
Tests almost completed on German Army Wolf vehicles with deliveries soon
The Germany Army (Bundeswehr) signed for 1,500 Mercedes-Benz Defence Vehicles Wolf 2 all-purpose 4×4 light utility vehicle in July last year, a deal which ultimately be for 5,800 units. Testing is ongoing and first production vehicles are expected to be delivered in November.
-
![BAE Systems to further develop modular armoured vehicle]()
BAE Systems to further develop modular armoured vehicle
BAE Systems and Kongsberg have received contracts for the US Marine Corps’ (USMC’s) armed Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) variant with the former also outlining future plans for the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) it is producing for the US Army.
-
![Kyiv works to replicate unmanned air success with ground vehicles]()
Kyiv works to replicate unmanned air success with ground vehicles
The conflict in Ukraine has seen the country’s defence firms emerge as technological innovators in response to the Russian invasion of the country in 2022. The drone war in the air has been a significant development while the efforts on the ground have been less acknowledged.
