US Army 82nd Airborne Division Begins Operational Testing of New M10 Booker 105mm Combat Vehicles.

On July 9, 2024, the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division started military operational testing and evaluation of the M10 Booker, a new 105mm tracked combat vehicle. This vehicle, previously known as the Mobile Protective Firepower (MPF), represents a critical addition to the Army's arsenal, designed to enhance the firepower and maneuverability of airborne and light infantry units.
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The M10 Booker is the new fire support combat vehicle for the U.S. Army airborne units.  (Picture source: X Social Network)

The operational testing, which began today, marks a crucial phase in the integration of the M10 Booker into active service. The tests encompass a comprehensive range of activities, including familiarization with new equipment, live-fire exercises, and tactical maneuvers involving paratroopers. These activities aim to validate the vehicle's performance, reliability, and suitability for various combat scenarios.

The M10 Booker is engineered to provide immediate, direct fire support to infantry units engaged in combat. Its primary mission is to destroy or neutralize enemy bunkers, machine gun nests, light armored vehicles, and other fortified positions that pose a threat to ground troops. The vehicle's 105mm main gun offers significant firepower, enabling it to deliver precise and powerful strikes. Additionally, its mobility allows it to keep pace with fast-moving airborne and light infantry forces, ensuring continuous support during rapid advances or defensive operations.

The M10 Booker boasts several advanced technical features designed to enhance its combat effectiveness and survivability. Equipped with a 105mm M35 cannon, the M10 Booker can engage a variety of targets with high-explosive, armor-piercing, and multi-purpose rounds. The vehicle's fire control system ensures accuracy and rapid target acquisition. Built on a tracked chassis, the M10 Booker offers excellent off-road capability, allowing it to traverse rough terrain and keep pace with infantry units. Its compact size and agility are particularly advantageous in urban and complex environments.

The vehicle's armor provides robust protection against small arms fire, shell splinters, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Additionally, the M10 Booker features advanced countermeasure systems to detect and neutralize threats such as anti-tank guided missiles. The vehicle is operated by a crew of four, including a commander, gunner, loader, and driver. The crew compartment is designed for optimal efficiency and situational awareness, with modern communication and navigation systems to coordinate with other units.

As a part of the 82nd Airborne Division, the M10 Booker is designed to be rapidly deployable. It can be airlifted by C-130 and C-17 aircraft, enabling swift insertion into conflict zones.

The introduction of the M10 Booker marks a pivotal enhancement in the U.S. Army's operational capabilities. By providing a versatile, highly mobile, and powerful support vehicle, the M10 Booker addresses a critical gap in the firepower available to airborne and light infantry units. The ongoing testing and evaluation by the 82nd Airborne Division will provide valuable insights and feedback, ensuring that the vehicle meets the rigorous demands of modern warfare.

As the U.S. Army continues to adapt to evolving threats and operational requirements, the successful integration of the M10 Booker will be instrumental in maintaining its tactical edge and ensuring the effectiveness of its ground forces in diverse combat scenarios.