U.S. Army Partners with BAE Systems to Develop Next-Gen Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon (MDAC)

The U.S. Army has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its defense capabilities by partnering with BAE Systems to develop the Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon (MDAC), a revolutionary 155mm self-propelled howitzer. Designed as part of an advanced air and missile defense system, MDAC aims to counter a wide spectrum of aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, helicopters, and aircraft. Central to this innovation is its use of hypervelocity projectiles, originally created for the Navy’s electromagnetic railgun program.

Rapid Development Under OTA Framework

The Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) announced on December 20th that the MDAC project will be executed through an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). This contracting mechanism allows for faster prototyping and development, bypassing traditional bureaucratic delays. The Army expects a full MDAC prototype battery to be ready by the end of fiscal year 2027, with operational demonstrations slated for 2028.

Collaboration with the Air Force

MDAC is not just an Army initiative. Since 2022, the project has benefitted from joint research efforts between the Army and the Air Force, supported by the Pentagon’s Strategic Capabilities Office and the Air Force Research Laboratory. This collaboration falls under the broader Hypervelocity Ground Weapon System initiative, which focuses on cutting-edge weapons technology to address modern battlefield challenges.

Key Features of MDAC

Each MDAC battery will comprise several components:

• Eight Multi-Domain Artillery Cannons: Capable of rapid firing and equipped with deep magazines.
• Four Multi-Function Precision Radars: For real-time threat detection and tracking.
• Two Multi-Domain Battle Managers: To coordinate defensive operations and enhance situational awareness.
• 144 Hypervelocity Projectiles: Providing the firepower to counter diverse aerial threats effectively.

These elements will integrate seamlessly with the Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System (IBCS), ensuring better operational efficiency and coordination.

Design Considerations and Potential Platforms

While specifics of the MDAC design remain under wraps, the Army has outlined some critical requirements. The system should be wheeled for mobility, rapidly deployable, capable of automated ammunition resupply, and transportable by C-130 cargo planes to support expeditionary missions.

A leading contender for the MDAC platform is the Archer self-propelled howitzer, developed by BAE’s subsidiary Bofors. Known for its advanced auto-loading capabilities and rapid deployment features, Archer aligns with the MDAC’s envisioned role. However, its lack of compatibility with C-130 transport presents a challenge. Alternatively, BAE Systems may design a new platform, potentially leveraging existing military truck platforms like the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles to meet the Army’s requirements.

Enhancing Battlefield Defense

The MDAC project represents a bold move to address evolving aerial threats in modern warfare. By integrating advanced technologies like hypervelocity projectiles and next-generation radar systems, MDAC will provide a robust complement to existing air and missile defense systems. Its focus on defending fixed and semi-fixed positions against high-speed aerial threats highlights its strategic importance in multi-domain operations.

As development progresses, the MDAC is set to redefine battlefield defense, bolstering the Army’s ability to counter sophisticated threats while maintaining a focus on mobility, precision, and integration. This partnership with BAE Systems underscores the Army’s commitment to staying ahead in the race for advanced defense technologies.