US Army takes delivery of first production M10 Booker Mobile Protected Firepower Light Tank.

The U.S. Department of Defense announced on April 17, 2024, that the first production model of the M10 Booker Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) combat vehicle has been delivered to the U.S. Army. Designed as a light tank, the M10 Booker combines the firepower and mobility typical of a Main Battle Tank (MBT), yet it weighs only 35 tons—significantly lighter compared to the 63-ton Abrams M1A2 MBT.
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The M10 Booker is the new fire support vehicle for the U.S. Army airborne troops. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

The M10 Booker project, developed by General Dynamics Land Systems, emerged from the Mobile Protected Firepower program. This initiative reached a significant milestone when the U.S. Army awarded General Dynamics a $1.14 billion contract in June 2022 to produce the vehicle. The contract involves delivering 96 low-rate initial production (LRIP) vehicles.

The design and development of the M10 Booker is a significant effort by General Dynamics to meet the Army's requirements for a new combat vehicle that provides mobile, protected firepower for light infantry and airborne forces. The M10 Booker is set to replace older models and aims to offer enhanced mobility, firepower, protection, and situational awareness to the troops on the battlefield.

The concept of Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) for the U.S. Army centers around providing highly mobile, armored firepower that can be rapidly deployed to support infantry units in various combat scenarios. This capability is especially crucial in environments where heavier tanks might be less effective or unable to operate due to terrain or logistical constraints.

The primary objective of the MPF is to enable light infantry, airborne, and air assault units to breach enemy defenses, engage in direct-fire combat, and destroy armored threats. These vehicles are designed to be air-transportable and agile, offering a blend of firepower and protection that enhances the survivability and effectiveness of the units they support.

The MPF vehicles, like the M10 Booker, typically feature advanced armor and armament, including large-caliber guns capable of defeating fortified positions and enemy armor. They also incorporate modern fire control systems to enhance their precision and lethality. Moreover, their design considerations include the ability to operate alongside foot soldiers in restrictive, rugged terrains, providing a direct fire support platform that complements the strategic mobility of airborne and light infantry brigades.

The M10 Booker can be considered a light tank offering the mobility and firepower of a Main Battle Tank (MBT). (Picture source U.S. DoD)

The main armament of M10 Booker consists of one 105mm cannon, which is capable of firing high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds and armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds, providing it with the ability to engage a variety of targets including enemy armor and fortifications. The tank also has one coaxial 7.62mm machine gun for additional firepower against lighter targets and infantry. The commander hatch is also equipped with one 12.7mm machine gun.

The M10 Booker is built for high mobility across challenging terrains. It is powered by a diesel engine which provides a top speed of around 65 km/h (40 miles/hour), making it swift for an armored vehicle. Its cruising range extends to approximately 480 km (300 miles), allowing for extended operations without the need for frequent refueling. The Booker's lightweight design and compact dimensions enable it to be air-transportable, crucial for rapid deployment in remote locations. Its tracks are designed to offer excellent traction on soft ground, mud, and snow, maintaining operability in diverse environments.

In terms of protection, the M10 Booker utilizes modular armor that offers adaptability and repairability in the field. This armor protects against small arms fire, artillery shell fragments, and can be uprated to withstand hits from heavier anti-tank weapons depending on mission requirements. The vehicle also incorporates advanced survivability features like mine-resistant armor and an active protection system capable of intercepting incoming missile threats.

The M10 Booker will significantly enhance the U.S. Army's capabilities by offering advanced firepower and situational awareness that enable infantry units to effectively tackle challenging targets and maintain operational agility and initiative. The vehicle's introduction will commence with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Liberty, marking the first unit to operate and evaluate the M10 Booker starting later this year. As deployment progresses, "Mobile Protected Firepower" battalions are set to be established at Fort Johnson in Louisiana, Fort Campbell in Kentucky, Fort Liberty in North Carolina, Fort Carson in Colorado, and within the National Guard units. This rollout will equip light infantry formations with the essential tools required for modern combat, ensuring they are well-prepared for future engagements.

Defense News April 2024