Wednesday February 26, 2014
What is it?
The XM905 Advanced Mortar Protection System (AMPS) is a dismounted 120-mm smoothbore recoiling mortar system which utilizes the Recoiling Mortar System 6-Light (RMS6-L) Mortar system currently used in the M1129/M1252 Stryker Mortar Carriers (MC).
The intended use for the system is to provide indirect fire for defensive purposes at Forward Operating Bases. The system was adapted for ground mount firing with the addition of a firing platform. The platform is emplaced with three spades and stakes, with the option of adding sandbags to further reduce mortar movement upon firing.
An electric drive system provides a full 360-degree firing capability by rotating in opposite directions from travel lock, with hard stops preventing further traversing, and enables automated laying of azimuth and elevation of the cannon. The system is capable of providing an accurate solution when emplaced on a sloped terrain.
What has the Army done?
The U.S. Army Armaments Research Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) at Picatinny Arsenal received the authority and recently fielded the XM905 Advanced Mortar Protection System to Special Forces. This system was developed in response to a Joint Urgent Operational Need (JUON) issued by the commander, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan (CJSOTF-A). ARDEC’s customer is the Rapid Reaction Technology Office (RRTO) of Office of the Secretary of Defense. The XM905 systems were prepositioned in Afghanistan, along with field support representatives, to enable the fielding process.
What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?
In addition to completing the fielding of the quantity of systems in support of the Joint Urgent Operational Needs, or JUONS, an urgent materiel release is being pursued to allow conventional forces to receive/operate the system.
Why is this important to the Army?
The Army has a need for improved Forward Operating Base protection in Afghanistan. AMPS enhances the speed, accuracy, and reliability of legacy weapons and ammo with a graduated kinetic response. It provides the operator with improved accuracy and a reduced collateral damage capability with lethal consequence to enemy forces. AMPS requires less manpower to deliver indirect fire for a given capability.
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