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
-
![Lockheed Martin to look further afield for GMARS rocket system opportunities]()
Lockheed Martin to look further afield for GMARS rocket system opportunities
The HX truck is already in use in many NATO and allied countries around the world as a logistics vehicle and carrier for high-value systems, including missile firing weapons, so its use for the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System makes logistical sense.
-
![Lithuanian 1st Division to achieve initial operating capability in 2026]()
Lithuanian 1st Division to achieve initial operating capability in 2026
Lithuania is one of the countries stepping up its defences in the face of the war in Ukraine with a particular focus on its neighbour and Russian ally Belarus, which has been making incursions into Lithuania’s airspace with balloons and drones.
-
![Beyond Survivability: How Active Protection Systems Are Empowering Commanders (Podcast)]()
Beyond Survivability: How Active Protection Systems Are Empowering Commanders (Podcast)
As threats diversify and intensify, APS are proving essential not just for vehicle protection but also for enhancing operational freedom, effectiveness and mission success in contested environments.
-
![Medium knocked out of British Army LMP, with CAVS as heavyweight champion]()
Medium knocked out of British Army LMP, with CAVS as heavyweight champion
As the British Army seeks to modernise and consolidate its diverse vehicle fleet, yet another change in direction is underway.
