Front End Analysis of Armored Vehicle Alternatives for the Chemically andBiologically Protected Shelter

摘要

With the increased mobility of the M1 Abrams and M2/M3 Bradley equipped heavydivision, the ability of the Chemically and Biologically Protected Shelter 0CBPS), as presently configured, to keep pace with heavy armored divisions is questionable. To resolve this potential problem, an investigation of both tracked and wheeled armored replacement vehicles was conducted. All of the moderately priced alternative vehicles will require fairly complex modifications to achieve the desired level of NBC performance. Among the heavy armored tracked vehicles, the BMY Universal Fire Detection Center Vehicle appears to be a viable alternative to the current CBPS vehicle. Likewise, the General Dynamics FOX NBCRS appears to be the most viable light armored wheeled vehicle alternative. One vehicle, the FMC Bradley XM4, is in a class by itself. The Bradley is, and will remain, the Army's primary armored personnel type vehicle well into the next century. Despite its high cost, the FMC Bradley XM4, with its proven NBC protection and ability to keep pace with a heavy division is clearly the best alternative vehicle for the CBPS.