SubscribeThe AIM tank from General Dynamics Land Systems
Program name:
Abrams Integrated Management (AIM)
Program description:
The AIM tank is a zero mileage rebuild of a used M1A1 Tank. The AIM process enables the installation of unapplied modifications and facilitates insertion of emerging technology such as Blue Force Tracking, Far Target Locate, 2nd Generation FLIR. GDLS has a partnering arrangement with Anniston Army Depot for this program.
Customer(s):
U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command, Warren, Michigan
Contract value:
Current awards to date excluding proof of principle - $ 511 M
Deliverables:
First year production of 45 tanks was completed in June 2000. Production is continuing at a rate of approximately 100 tanks per year. Program is expected to continue through 2010.
Key dates:
31 January 2006: Target date for Program Year 8 Labor contract award, 92 tanks
31 March 2006: Target date for Program year 9 Material & Option for Labor contract award, 100 tanks
30 June 2006: Target date for 210 Supplemental contract award, 210 tanks
Prime contractor:
General Dynamics Land Systems
Team members:
Anniston Army Depot, Anniston, AL
Challenges:
Convincing the Army to expand the AIM contract to improve the operational readiness of tanks that are being returned from combat duty in Iraq. Convincing the National Guard Bureau to support the Army’s “18-17” initiative that would result in the AIM pure fleeting of the National Guard’s end state authorization of 600 tanks.
Awards:
None, but program has received strong praise by Army leadership.
Photographs:
See General Dynamics Land Systems product photos CD
Other pertinent information:
GDLS is working with the Anniston Army Depot to convince senior Army leadership to use the AIM program as the most cost effective means to recondition the M1A1 tanks used in Iraq to a fully operational status.