General Dynamics tapped for the CHS-5 program by the US Army.

General Dynamics Missions Systems was awarded a contract for the Common Hardware Systems-5 (CHS-5) Program from the U.S. Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. The indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract consists of a three-year base contract with two one-year options, for a maximum potential contract ceiling of $3.9 billion.

The program provides U.S. military customers rapid, affordable access to commercial-grade computing and network equipment modified for military operations (source: General Dynamics )

"The CHS program is a great example of how the Army and industry can partner to ensure military services can rapidly acquire C4ISR solutions and other products that are not only cost-competitive with the commercial market, but logistically managed and supported for an extended period," said Chris Marzilli, president of General Dynamics Mission Systems. "More importantly, the ability of the CHS program to quickly adapt to the evolving challenges of today's battlefield plays a critical role in supporting the Army's tactical network modernization efforts."

CHS is a "one stop shop" for tactical IT hardware solutions supporting more than 120 Army and U.S. Department of Defense program offices (including the Navy and the Marine Corps) for the rapid acquisition (orders typically on contract in 90 days or less) and delivery of commercial-off-the shelf IT hardware and services. Approximately 75,000 to 100,000 pieces of hardware are acquired through the contract from General Dynamics Mission Systems and its partners, which includes dozens of small and large businesses. ‎

The contract contains a robust technology-insertion process ensuring the CHS-5 hardware baseline leverages the most current commercial technology and industry investments. Additionally, the contract provides for technical assistance support services and logistics support for a wide range of services, from the rapid repair and replacement of equipment at strategically located Regional Support Centers to the deployment of field service personnel to CHS-5 user locations worldwide.