US Army field artillery seeks faster firing and force ‘thickening’
Army Futures Command is exploring how small business can help to deliver future artillery solutions, while it is also planning to showcase remotely fired and remotely operated rockets in June.
US Army field artillery representatives recently conducted a ‘cohort week’ at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, designed to bring innovative small business ideas to the challenge of increasing cannon firing rates.
In addition, plans are underway to explore ‘thickening’ the force with a June demonstration of a remotely operated High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
According to BG John Rafferty, director of the Long Range Precision Fires Cross Functional Team in Army Futures Command (AFC), the cohort process began two years ago with an initial focus on challenges and innovative solutions for autonomous resupply.
‘There were about 200 attendees at the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![AUSA 2026: AM General boss confirms 300-plus JLTV A2s delivered as export orders approach]()
AUSA 2026: AM General boss confirms 300-plus JLTV A2s delivered as export orders approach
The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle programme for the US Marine Corps appears to be making progress, with AM General increasing production of its version while Oshkosh Defense has secured long-lead materials in anticipation of becoming a second supplier.
-
![AUSA 2026: Textron shows upgraded Commando Select as it seeks exports beyond Ukraine]()
AUSA 2026: Textron shows upgraded Commando Select as it seeks exports beyond Ukraine
The latest Commando Select configuration incorporates improvements to its powerpack and suspension, with the first of 65 vehicles destined for Ukraine expected to be delivered in early 2027.
-
![Active protection systems: from optional upgrade to operational requirement]()
Active protection systems: from optional upgrade to operational requirement
As battlefield threats multiply, active protection systems are becoming increasingly important for armoured vehicle survivability – but cost, integration challenges and evolving drone threats will determine how widely they can be deployed.
