The Commander Operational
Test and Evaluation Force will conduct the testing to verify the program's
effectiveness and suitability. It is expected to enter low rate initial
production later this fiscal year. The Navy designed the JCREW system
using an innovative modular, open architecture platform that allows
rapid improvements in system performance in order to counter the constantly
evolving IED threat.
"The Navy is developing the JCREW system to protect the warfighter
on patrol, in vehicles, or in forward operating bases from advanced
radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (RCIEDs)," said
Capt. Aaron Peters, expeditionary missions program manager.
The program includes three variants that provide critical support
to warfighters. The dismounted variant is carried via backpack; the
mounted variant is attached to tactical vehicles, such as the Humvee
and Mine Resistant Ambush Protected; and the fixed variant provides
protection at static locations, such as buildings, entry control points
or forward operating bases. These systems provide a "protective
bubble" around warfighters, preventing the initiation of an improvised
explosive device within a lethal range.
The JCREW program is managed by the Expeditionary Missions Program
Office as part of the Naval Sea Systems Command's Directorate for
Acquisition and Commonality. The directorate brings together personnel
dedicated to bridging communication gaps between government and industry,
in order to enable cost and variance reductions throughout the acquisition
lifecycle. The directorate also provides leadership support to expeditionary
missions, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and special warfare
communities.
