Conventional forces provide the bulk of the nation’s military power. They consist of combat and support elements from all four Services, excluding units dedicated to special operations and nuclear deterrence. The major categories of conventional forces are land, naval, aviation, and mobility forces. It is primarily these forces that provide the United States the ability to support the defense strategy, which focuses on shaping the international environment and responding to a full range of crises. Toward these objectives, conventional forces conduct forward presence missions, engage in a range of smaller-scale contingencies, and conduct combat operations up to and including major theater wars.

The FY 2000 President’s Budget and associated Future Years Defense Program (FYDP) provide resources to sustain and modernize the nation’s forces in both the near and far terms. This chapter describes the capabilities required for executing conventional force missions and the investments vital to maintaining and enhancing those capabilities.

The United States needs to deploy forces routinely abroad to shape the international environment in ways favorable to its interests. Historically, forward deployments have been concentrated in Europe, the Pacific, and Southwest Asia. These deployments include:

In addition, all four Services periodically deploy forces to forward locations, as needs arise. Such deployments involve both active and reserve component units, with prepositioned U.S. equipment and material contributing substantially to overseas presence. The following chart shows the nominal location of major U.S. conventional force elements.

Potential regional aggressors possess a range of capabilities that could pose significant dangers to U.S. military operations. These threats, which are likely to expand in the future as a result of the proliferation of modern military technology, include increasingly capable air-, sea-, and land-based weapons. To ensure quick and decisive victory with minimum casualties, U.S. forces must maintain a substantial advantage over potential adversaries capable of employing advanced weapon systems. U.S. forces simultaneously must be prepared to face the potential challenges of asymmetric threats, such as the use of nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) weapons, an increase in terrorism, and information warfare.

Near-term threats remain below levels that would put U.S. air superiority at significant risk in a regional conflict. On the other hand, potential adversaries are expected to pose significant future surface-to-air threats that could restrict the rapid application of U.S. air power against key ground targets at the outset of a war.

A maritime threat of increasing concern is the proliferation of advanced submarine technology to countries with an interest in impeding access to international waters. The production of nonnuclear submarines is increasing worldwide, with the most advanced technologies readily available to many nations. Additionally, many smaller navies are now acquiring modern submarines, some for the first time in their histories. Of principal concern are North Korea, which continues to operate the fourth largest number of submarines in the world, and Iran, which is acquiring acoustically-quiet diesel submarines from Russia. Also, China’s navy operates the third largest number of submarines in the world, and has cultivated a relationship with Russia that has enabled it to obtain access to some of the most advanced undersea warfare technology.

In the future, the United States must be prepared to face a range of potential naval mine threats far more lethal than those existing today. More than 48 of the world’s navies now possess mines and minelaying capabilities. At least 30 countries are actively engaged in the development and manufacture of sophisticated new mines. Of these, 20 are known exporters of mines. An even greater number of nations possess the ability to lay naval mines. Although most of the world’s stockpiled mines are relatively old and unsophisticated, they remain lethal and are easily upgraded. Naval power projection missions often require U.S. forces to operate in shallow water (less than 300 feet deep), where mines are most effective.

Sophisticated antiship cruise missiles (ASCMs) remain a major threat to U.S. naval forces. These weapon systems are rapidly increasing in number worldwide. In particular, several Middle Eastern and Asian countries have procured substantial numbers of ASCMs for use aboard missile boats and by coastal defense batteries. Future generations of ASCMs will be supersonic and highly maneuverable in the terminal phases of flight. As a result, U.S. naval forces operating in littoral waters can expect to face a more substantial threat from these missiles in the decades ahead.

The United States and its allies continue to face the threat of coercion and large-scale, cross-border aggression by hostile states with significant military power. Several types of highly capable weapon systems are becoming both available and affordable for regimes that are unstable or hostile to U.S. interests. These systems include lightweight antiaircraft and antitank missiles, tactical ballistic missiles with improved guidance and payload technologies, modern battle tanks incorporating day-and-night optics, passive defense systems capable of interfering with precision-guided munitions, active defense systems that redirect or destroy incoming projectiles, advanced antitank guided missiles capable of top attacks against tank turrets, and advanced artillery munitions.

Increasingly capable and violent terrorist groups, drug cartels, and international crime organizations directly threaten the lives of American citizens and undermine U.S. policies and alliances. Although irregular forces will be unable to match the combat power of heavy U.S. weaponry, these forces still pose difficult challenges to U.S. forces. The proliferation of modern light arms, a fighting style that could necessitate operations in dense urban environments, and the ability of indigenous forces to conceal themselves within civil populations could negate some of the advantages of U.S. heavy weaponry.

NBC weapons delivered by theater ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, artillery, aircraft, special operations forces, or terrorists threaten U.S. security interests and U.S. military forces deployed throughout the world. More than 20 countries possess or are developing NBC weapons, and more than 20 nations have theater ballistic missiles. The warfighting assessments conducted for the Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR) highlighted the significant challenge that the sustained use of NBC weapons could pose to U.S. conventional forces.

Key elements of the conventional force structure are shown in Table 1.

Aviation forces of the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps—composed of fighter/attack, conventional bomber, and specialized support aircraft—provide a versatile striking force capable of rapid employment worldwide. These forces can quickly gain and sustain air superiority over regional aggressors, permitting rapid air attacks on enemy targets while providing security to exploit the air for logistics, command and control, intelligence, and other functions. Fighter/attack aircraft, operating from both land bases and aircraft carriers, combat enemy fighters and attack ground and ship targets. Conventional bombers provide an intercontinental capability to strike surface targets on short notice. The specialized aircraft supporting conventional operations perform functions such as airborne early warning and control, suppression of enemy air defenses, reconnaissance, surveillance, and combat rescue. In addition to these forces, the U.S. military operates a variety of transport planes, aerial-refueling aircraft, helicopters, and other support aircraft. Descriptions of those systems are provided in the sections on mobility and land forces.

The Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps keep a portion of their tactical air forces forward deployed at all times. These forces can be augmented, as needs arise, with aircraft based in the United States.

During FY 2000, the aviation combat force structure will include 20.2 Air Force FWEs (72 aircraft each), 11 Navy carrier air wings (50 fighter/attack aircraft each), and four Marine aircraft wings (which are task organized and include varying numbers and types of aircraft). Tables 2, 3, and 4 illustrate the composition of Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps air wings at the end of FY 2000.

The Air Force has proposed to recast the operational employment of the bulk of its tactical aviation forces through the creation of aerospace expeditionary forces (AEFs). Under this concept, the fighter/attack force, as well as some bomber, tanker, and transport aircraft, will be grouped into ten AEFs for the purpose of specifying day-to-day readiness levels and availability for overseas contingency deployments. Readiness to meet MTW demands will remain unchanged. The main benefit of the AEF process will be the long-term predictability of future deployment prospects, much as the Navy has accomplished with its cyclical overseas deployments. This predictability should greatly aid Service personnel in planning personal and family commitments. The Air Force’s basic unit organization—squadrons and wings— will not change. Details regarding AEF composition and procedures are being worked out now, and the first AEF is expected to become operational in FY 2000.

The Air Force is taking steps to improve both near- and long-term force readiness. Expanded funding relative to last year’s program for both depot-level repairable items and initial spares will increase aircraft availability across the fleet. Funding additions for engine upgrades, modifications, and component improvements—also across the fleet—similarly will improve force availability. Funding also has been added to support F-15 radars, which otherwise would have become unsustainable in FY 2002. Finally, there has been a considerable increase in funding for enlistment and reenlistment bonuses. These will help not only in retaining today’s highly trained aviators but also in attracting the highly qualified personnel needed for the future.

The Navy also is taking steps to improve force readiness, both in the near term and for the long term. Funding increases for F/A-18C/D maintenance and modifications, as well as expanded procurement of infrared targeting pods, will improve force effectiveness over the lives of these aircraft. Significant improvements are being made in Marine Corps AV-8B support, drawing on the findings of the 1998 Harrier Readiness Panel study. Procurement of an additional 41 T-45 and 24 T-6 training aircraft will increase student pilot throughput and help ease current pilot shortages. Boosts in flight-hour funding levels also are expected to reduce fluctuations in readiness as naval tactical aviation forces prepare for deployments.

Efforts to reduce the cost of the tactical aviation infrastructure continue to fall short of goals. Practical difficulties in defining the scope of new programs, as well as restrictions on consolidation and reduction, have eliminated or delayed achievement of some anticipated efficiencies. As foreseen in the Quadrennial Defense Review, however, the Air Force will reduce its U.S.-based air defense force from six to four fighter interceptor squadrons by FY 2000. The two squadrons removed will be reassigned to general purpose fighter roles.

In a major theater war, bombers would deliver large quantities of unguided general-purpose bombs and cluster munitions against area targets, such as ground units, airfields, and rail yards. Bomber forces also would play a key role in delivering precision-guided munitions (including cruise missiles) against point targets, such as command and control facilities and air defense sites.

The Department has 94 B-52, 93 B-1, and 21 B-2 bombers. (The B-2 figure includes aircraft being modified to the Block 30 configuration.) The number of B-52s is scheduled to be 76 in FY 2000. Of the force totals reported above, 44 B-52s and 54 B-1s are primary mission aircraft, meaning that they are fully funded in terms of operations and maintenance, load crews, and spare parts, and are ready for immediate deployment. An additional 12 B-52s are held ready for nuclear missions. All of the B-52s and B-1s in the inventory, including those in attrition reserve, will be kept in flyable condition and will receive planned modifications. B-1 primary mission aircraft will rise to 70 by 2004, when increasingly capable conventional weapons become available. Bombers will be an integral part of aerospace expeditionary forces; the mix of B-1s, B-52s, and B-2s needed for each AEF is currently under review.

Specialized aviation forces contribute to all phases of military operations. Two of their most important missions are suppression of enemy air defenses and aerial reconnaissance and surveillance. Air defense suppression forces locate and neutralize enemy air defenses. Airborne reconnaissance and surveillance forces are a primary source of information on enemy air and surface forces and installations. These forces bridge the gap in coverage between ground- and space-based surveillance systems and the targeting systems on combat aircraft. Airborne reconnaissance systems fall into two categories: standoff systems, which operate outside the range of enemy air defenses; and penetrating systems, which operate within enemy air defense range. Table 5 summarizes the force levels programmed to be on hand at the end of FY 2000.

Air Force reconnaissance and surveillance aircraft will remain outside the aerospace expeditionary force concept for the time being, based on their relatively small numbers and occasionally very heavy deployment demands. Other approaches, such as increasing the number of crews assigned, will be employed where practicable (and affordable) to moderate the operating tempo of these forces.

Naval forces conduct forward presence, crisis response, and joint warfighting operations. Major elements of the maritime force include aircraft carriers, amphibious ships, attack submarines, surface combatants, mine warfare ships, and ballistic-missile submarines (discussed in the Strategic Nuclear Forces/Missile Defenses chapter). In addition, the force includes maritime patrol aircraft and sea-based helicopters, as well as ships that perform support and logistics functions.

The FY 2000 budget and associated FYDP support the strategy and operational concepts outlined in the 1997 Quadrennial Defense Review. They provide funds to sustain 12 carrier battle groups (CVBGs), 12 amphibious ready groups (ARGs), 116 surface combatants, and 50 attack submarines through the FYDP period. The maritime force structure will reach 314 ships by the end of FY 2000 and will stabilize at slightly above 300 ships through FY 2005.

Carrier battle groups consist of a carrier and its air wing, plus various surface combatants and attack submarines. Amphibious ready groups are composed of a large-deck amphibious assault ship, a transport dock ship, a dock landing ship, and an embarked Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), or MEU(SOC). The Navy deploys a CVBG and an ARG about 75 and 80 percent of the time, respectively, in the Mediterranean; about 75 and 50 percent of the time, respectively, in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf; and on a nearly continuous basis in the western Pacific, where overseas homeporting arrangements exist. During periods when neither a CVBG nor an ARG is present in a theater, one of these forces is located within a few days’ transit time of the region.

The demands associated with maintaining overseas presence and supporting contingency operations play a significant role in determining naval force requirements. The composition and missions of major elements of the naval force structure are described in the sections that follow.

In addition to their extensive forward presence and crisis-response capabilities, aircraft carriers provide a unique forward base for littoral air operations and support facilities for joint force commanders. Operating independent of land-basing restrictions, carriers support joint forces by engaging in attack, surveillance, air defense, and electronic warfare missions against targets at sea, in the air, or ashore.

The FY 2000 budget and FYDP sustain a force of 12 fully deployable aircraft carriers. At the end of FY 2000, the carrier force will consist of nine nuclear-powered vessels—eight of the CVN-68 Nimitz class plus the Enterprise (CVN-65)—and three conventionally-powered units. The conventionally-powered ships include the J.F. Kennedy (CV-67), which functions as a reserve and training asset when not deployed to forward areas. The Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) was commissioned last year and is now preparing for its first deployment.

The next Nimitz-class carrier, the Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), will join the fleet in FY 2003, replacing the Constellation (CV-64). At that time, two conventionally-powered carriers—the Kitty Hawk (CV-63), stationed in Japan, and the Kennedy—will remain in operation. The Kitty Hawk will be retired in FY 2008, when CVN-77 enters service. The first CVNX, slated for construction beginning in FY 2006, will replace the Enterprise (CVN-65) in the FY 2013 time frame. The second CVNX will replace the Kennedy about five years later, when that carrier is about 50 years old.

Forward-deployed naval expeditionary forces containing Marine units embarked on amphibious assault ships contribute both to warfighting and peacetime presence operations. These forces are organized into three-ship amphibious ready groups. The ships can be employed either collectively or individually, depending on operational circumstances. They provide the capability to project forces rapidly into littoral regions and to support other types of contingencies, such as evacuation operations.

The FY 2000 budget and FYDP maintain a 12-ARG force capable of supporting three forward-deployed Marine expeditionary units in peacetime and lifting the equivalent of 2.5 Marine expeditionary brigades (MEBs) in wartime. By FY 2005, the amphibious force will consist of 38 active and two reserve vessels, including five of the new San Antonio-class LPD-17 amphibious transport dock ships.

The FY 2000-2005 program maintains a surface combatant force of 116 vessels, including 108 ships in the active inventory and eight in the reserves. While previous plans had contemplated reducing the reserve combatant force to four units, a decision has been made to retain eight ships due to the continued need for reserve vessels to support peacetime operations, such as drug interdiction.

Combat logistics forces provide fuel, food, spare parts, and ordnance to naval task groups at sea. These forces include station ships, which travel with the task groups, and shuttle ships, which ferry material continuously to them from shore bases. In FY 2000, the station-ship force will consist primarily of eight AOE-1 and AOE-6 class fast combat support ships. The shuttle-ship force will comprise 13 oilers, six dry stores ships (T-AFSs), and seven ammunition ships (T-AEs). The first new Auxiliary Dry Cargo Ships (T-ADC(X)) will be procured during the FYDP period. These multiproduct ships, to be manned by the Military Sealift Command, will allow aging T-AE, T-AFS, and AOE-1 vessels to be replaced on a less than one-for-one basis. The T-ADC(X) is slated to enter service in FY 2003.

The Light Airborne Multipurpose Helicopter (LAMPS) MK III system combines the SH-60B helicopter with a computer-integrated shipboard system for deploying sonobuoys, torpedoes, and antiship missiles and processing magnetic anomaly detector information. LAMPS also performs radar surveillance and electronic support functions. SH-60B LAMPS MK III helicopters operating from surface warships support both antisubmarine and antiship missions. The FY 2000 budget continues a reduction of the LAMPS force, including deactivation of SH-2G LAMPS MK I reserve squadrons. At the end of FY 2000, there will be 153 SH-60B aircraft in the inventory.

The diverse and complementary mix of capabilities provided by the Army and the Marine Corps gives military commanders a wide range of options for conducting ground missions. The Army provides forces for sustained combat operations on land, as well as for power projection and forcible-entry operations. The Marine Corps, as an integral part of the nation’s naval forces, provides expeditionary forces to project combat power ashore and to conduct forcible-entry operations in support of naval campaigns or as part of joint task forces. Operationally, a joint force commander employs land forces in close coordination with aviation and naval forces.

The Army will continue to maintain four active corps headquarters, 10 active divisions (six heavy and four light), and two active armored cavalry regiments. Light forces—airborne, air assault, and light infantry divisions—are tailored for forcible-entry operations and for operations on restricted terrain, like mountains, jungles, and urban areas. Heavy forces—armored and mechanized divisions equipped with Abrams tanks, Bradley fighting vehicles, Apache attack helicopters, and the Paladin field artillery system—are trained and equipped for operations against armies employing modern tanks and armored fighting vehicles. Light and heavy forces can operate independently or in combination, providing the mix of combat power needed for specific contingencies. Depending on the geographic location of both the forces and the crisis, Army forces stationed overseas provide either an initial or a follow-on source of combat power for regional deployments. For major conflicts, the Army can dispatch a force of up to five divisions plus support elements to any region of the world within 75 days.

The ongoing redesign of Army heavy divisions has resulted in the following changes: one less combat company per combat battalion, a dedicated reconnaissance troop assigned to each brigade, and an increased emphasis on command, control, and information support structures. The Total Army Analysis for FY 2007 will identify additional adjustments to the support needed to sustain Army combat forces across the range of military operations. Pending the study’s completion, the Army will work with the reserve components, including representatives of the Adjutants General, to develop possible options for reconfiguring appropriate reserve component units so that they mirror active units and are more relevant to national needs. In FY 2000, the Army National Guard is authorized 350,000 soldiers, organized into 15 enhanced separate brigades, eight combat divisions, three separate brigades, and various support units for divisions, corps, and theaters. The Army Reserve is authorized 205,000 soldiers, assigned primarily to combat support and combat service support units. Table 7 summarizes the Army force structure programmed for the end of FY 2000.

Marine units are employed as part of Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) consisting of four elements: command, ground combat, aviation combat, and combat service support. A Marine expeditionary force (MEF) is the largest MAGTF organized for combat, comprising one or more divisions, aircraft wings, and force service support groups. The Corps has three MEFs in the active force, headquartered in California (I MEF), North Carolina (II MEF), and Okinawa (III MEF). Embarked on amphibious ships, Marine Expeditionary Units (Special Operations Capable), consisting of about 2,000 Marines each, are task-organized and forward deployed continuously in or near regions of vital U.S. interest. These forces provide a swift and effective means of responding to fast-breaking crises and can remain on station for indefinite periods of time, ready to intervene or take action if needed. In addition to these general purpose forces, the Marine Corps has formed and employed a significant special capability in its Chemical/Biological Incident Response Force (CBIRF). The CBIRF is a national asset, designed to provide a rapid initial response to chemical/biological incidents. Table 8 summarizes the Marine Corps force structure programmed for the end of FY 2000.

Mobility forces—airlift, sealift, and land- and sea-based prepositioning—move military personnel and materiel to and from operating locations worldwide. These forces include transport aircraft, cargo ships, and ground transportation systems operated by the Defense Department and commercial carriers. By relying on commercial resources to augment military mobility systems, the Department maximizes the efficiency with which it can deploy and support forces abroad, while avoiding the prohibitive cost of maintaining military systems that duplicate capabilities readily attainable from the civil sector.

Airlift aircraft provide for the rapid deployment of troops and materiel to conflict theaters. Sometimes employed in conjunction with prepositioning, airlift delivers the forces needed in the critical early days of a combat operation. DoD has established an intertheater airlift objective of about 50 million ton-miles per day (MTM/D) of cargo capacity. Of that amount, about 20 MTM/D is provided by commercial aircraft, which contribute to military missions as participants in the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF). The remaining 30 MTM/D of intertheater airlift capacity is provided by military aircraft, which are designed to perform missions that cannot be accomplished by commercial planes. The Department will have an organic strategic airlift capacity of 26 MTM/D at the end of FY 2000.

Sealift contributes primarily to the movement of combat equipment and other cargoes, delivering the majority of the materiel needed to sustain deployed forces over time. DoD will attain a surge sealift capacity of 8.6 million square feet by the end of FY 2000, toward a goal of 10 million square feet. Surge sealift capacity is provided by fast sealift ships, large medium-speed roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessels, and the Ready Reserve Force (RRF).

The prepositioning of military equipment and supplies near potential conflict regions reduces response time in contingencies. With material stored on land or afloat at overseas locations, only the troops themselves and a relatively small amount of equipment need be airlifted to the theater at the outbreak of a crisis. Objectives for prepositioning are based on those forces required very early in a conflict to halt an enemy’s advance.

Military airlift forces provide a range of capabilities not attainable from civil aircraft. Features unique to military transport aircraft include the ability to air drop cargo and personnel; unload cargo rapidly, even at airfields lacking materiel-handling equipment; and carry outsize loads, such as Patriot missile systems, tanks, or helicopters. Of the cargo that must be airlifted in the early stages of a conflict, more than half is too large to be accommodated by even the biggest commercial cargo planes and must be transported by military aircraft. By the end of FY 2000, the military airlift fleet will consist of 46 C-17s, 104 C-141s, 104 C-5s, and 425 C-130s (all figures denote aircraft assigned for performance of their wartime missions). These aircraft are operated by active, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve squadrons.

Commercial aircraft augment military airlift forces in moving troops and standard-sized cargo. Through the CRAF program, the Department gains access to commercial passenger and cargo planes in times of crisis. In return for their participation in CRAF, carriers are given preference for the Department’s peacetime passenger and cargo business. CRAF forces are mobilized in three stages, giving DoD access to approximately 60 percent of the passenger capacity in the long-range U.S. commercial fleet and nearly 75 percent of the cargo capacity. In the most demanding deployment scenarios, commercial aircraft would move nearly all of the passengers and more than one-third of the cargo airlifted to a conflict theater.

Sealift forces carry the full range of combat equipment and supplies needed to support military operations abroad. These forces include three major types of ships: containerships, used primarily to move supplies; LMSRs and other roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessels, which move combat equipment; and tankers, used to transport fuels.

Sealift capacity comes from three sources: government-owned ships supporting the prepositioning program or maintained in reserve status, commercial ships under long-term charter to the Defense Department, and ships operating in commercial trade.

A number of the commercial vessels listed above can be made available for military contingencies under the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA), established by the Departments of Defense and Transportation with commercial cargo carriers in 1997. VISA provides access to commercial shipping capacity and to the intermodal capabilities of commercial carriers, such as rail, truck, and pier facilities. As with the CRAF program for airlift, VISA is structured to make sealift available in stages.

Aerial-refueling, or tanker, forces extend the range of airlift and combat aircraft by enabling these planes to be refueled in flight. The long-range tanker force consists of 472 KC-135 and 54 KC-10 Air Force primary mission aircraft. In addition to operating in the tanker role, both the KC-135 and KC-10 can be employed as passenger or cargo transports, with the KC-10 possessing a significant capability to perform tanker and airlift missions simultaneously.

The United States stores a variety of combat equipment and supplies at selected locations abroad. These stocks, maintained ashore and afloat, dramatically reduce both the time required to deploy forces and the number of airlift sorties needed to move them. For instance, moving a heavy Army brigade with its 27,000 tons of equipment from the United States to an overseas location would take 20 to 30 days using a combination of airlift and sealift. By prepositioning the bulk of the brigade’s equipment abroad, the intertheater transport requirement drops to about 2,000 tons, enabling the brigade to deploy in a week using only a small portion of the Department’s total airlift fleet and allowing the remaining aircraft to be employed for other missions.

Land- and sea-based prepositioning provide complementary capabilities for supporting military operations. Land-based prepositioning enhances crisis responsiveness in specific theaters and is the most economical way of maintaining materiel abroad. Afloat prepositioning, while more expensive, provides the flexibility to relocate stocks quickly within and between theaters to meet the demands of particular operations.

Land-Based Prepositioning. Land-based prepositioning programs are maintained in Europe, Southwest Asia, and the Pacific region. In Europe, the Army stockpiles equipment for three heavy brigades—two in central Europe and one in Italy. The Marine Corps stores equipment and 30 days of supplies for the lead echelon of a MEF in Norway. In addition, the Air Force maintains eight air base support sets—temporary shelters for early-arriving air base personnel—at a site in Luxembourg.

In Southwest Asia, the Army stocks equipment for two heavy armor brigades. One brigade set is prepositioned in Kuwait, and the other set—which includes equipment to support a division headquarters—is located in Qatar. The Air Force stores air base operation sets in the region, consisting of shelters, materiel-handling equipment, aircraft-refueling trucks, and other gear. Much of the Air Force materiel maintained at Southwest Asian locales is being used to support contingency operations.

In Korea, the Army stockpiles equipment for a heavy armor brigade. The Air Force stores eight air base support sets at three locations in Korea to meet surge billeting requirements.

Sea-Based Prepositioning. Sea-based prepositioning programs support all four Services. The Department uses a mix of government-owned ships and commercial vessels to stockpile materiel at sea. Army equipment and supplies are carried aboard a fleet of chartered vessels, LMSRs, and an RRF ship. Stationed in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, these ships provide materiel for an armor brigade and selected combat support and combat service support units. Additionally, the fleet carries Army watercraft for port-opening operations. Plans call for an additional Army brigade set to be prepositioned afloat by FY 2001.

Marine Corps equipment and supplies are carried on a mix of vessels, known collectively as maritime prepositioning ships. These ships, which form the maritime prepositioning force (MPF), are organized into three squadrons, each capable of supporting the operation of a 17,300-person MEF for 30 days. The squadrons are stationed in the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Mediterranean Sea. A new ship will be added to the MPF in FY 2000, and an additional vessel will join the force in FY 2001. The new ships, both of which are being built specifically for the maritime prepositioning force, will be assigned to two of the three existing MPF squadrons.

The sea-based prepositioning force also includes chartered ships carrying Air Force munitions and a Navy fleet (ashore) hospital. The remaining vessels—a government-owned tanker and two RRF ships specially equipped to transfer fuel directly ashore—are maintained for use by all U.S. forces.

Table 9 shows the projected inventories for key elements of the military mobility force structure at the end of FY 2000.

The military challenges that could emerge in the 21st century, coupled with the aging of key elements of the U.S. force structure, led the QDR to emphasize the need for a robust defense modernization program. Continuing the QDR’s emphasis, the Department’s FY 2000 program:

A robust modernization program can be achieved and sustained only if the Department pursues fundamental reforms in the way it does business. Initiatives begun as a result of the QDR, in conjunction with the ongoing Defense Reform Initiative, are achieving savings in all aspects of the Department’s activities. Examples include:

The following sections describe key investment programs sustaining conventional forces funded in the FY 2000 President’s Budget.

Aviation force modernization is an important part of the Department’s overall investment program, constituting more than 10 percent of the funding planned for FY 2000.

JSF is projected to combine a substantial combat mission radius with high survivability against air defenses and a large payload by capitalizing on technological advances in electronics, materials, and manufacturing processes. To reduce risk in the development process, JSF currently is in a concept demonstration phase that will continue into FY 2001. The demonstration phase involves two competing aircraft designs, one developed by Boeing and the other by Lockheed Martin. Construction of two demonstrator aircraft by each contractor is well underway, and flight tests will begin in FY 2000. The tests will help refine aircraft propulsion integration and flight control design, while ensuring the aircraft’s suitability for shipboard operations. Successful completion of the flight test program will give greater confidence in the subsequent engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase, slated to begin in mid-FY 2001. Procurement of the first aircraft, for the Air Force, is scheduled for FY 2005.

Success in the JSF program depends both on technical engineering factors and on cost control. Meeting cost targets is essential if JSF is to be a mass-production aircraft that can sustain the force structure beyond FY 2010. The JSF is not projected to match the unique capabilities of more specialized aircraft. It will, however, provide a superior combination of multirole capabilities within affordable limits. A thorough Analysis of Alternatives will be conducted to confirm the aircraft’s readiness for entry into the EMD phase in FY 2001.

The JSF has attracted significant interest from friendly nations who are considering potential replacements for their current fleets of combat aircraft. The United Kingdom is a full collaborative partner, planning to replace its Royal Navy Sea Harriers and Royal Air Force GR-7 Harriers with the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the JSF. Three other nations that have become associate partners—the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark—are seeking to determine whether the JSF could meet their future strike-fighter requirements. In addition, Canada is monitoring the system’s initial development efforts as an informed partner.

F-22. The F-22 will replace the F-15C/D in the air superiority role and will possess substantial air-to-ground capability as well. The F-22 is expected to be even more effective than the F-15 due to its significantly lower radar signature, highly integrated avionics systems (for situation awareness and targeting), and ability to cruise at supersonic speed. The first two of nine F-22 EMD test aircraft are flying at Edwards Air Force Base in California, demonstrating the aircraft’s performance in a steadily increasing share of its planned flight envelope. The aircraft is meeting or exceeding the design goals set for this stage of development. Complementing the flight-test program, static (loadbearing) testing on one aircraft and cyclic fatigue (lifetime) testing on another aircraft will begin in 1999.

The pace of some F-22 avionics and airframe tasks within the EMD program fell behind schedule during the first half of 1998, increasing the potential risk of cost growth and further schedule slippage. Government and contractor teams have evaluated a full range of potential remedies for these problems, and are committed to keeping the program within the congressionally-mandated cost caps. The program’s recent success during an accelerated flight-test schedule reflects this commitment. The Defense Acquisition Executive has established criteria that must be met before each of the early lots of aircraft can be ordered. The F-22 program satisfied those criteria on schedule in 1998.

Accordingly, the manufacture of two production-representative test aircraft was authorized on December 23, 1998. A contract award for low-rate initial production (LRIP) of six F-22s is planned in 1999. The decision to commence production of the F-22 reflects a judgment weighing the benefits and risks of proceeding in a situation where there is concurrency between development and production. The Department accepts some concurrency between development and production as being appropriate to limit costs. While delays in the F-22 program have increased concurrency beyond previously planned levels, the costs of interposing a larger gap between development and procurement are prohibitively high. Delaying procurement now would reduce production risks. The program’s initial flight test success, extensive modeling and simulation accomplishments, and prior flying prototype results give evidence, however, that the existing concurrency risks are acceptable.

The present acquisition plan will provide three wings of F-22 aircraft by about FY 2013. In the event that the F-22 encounters significant cost, schedule, or performance problems, the Department will pursue an alternative force mix to ensure air superiority in the future. Possible alternatives to the F-22 will be assessed over the coming year in preparation for the LRIP decision. Provided its costs are controlled, the F-22 could be used to meet force needs beyond those currently planned. In particular, a derivative of the F-22 could be a candidate to replace the F-15E and F-117A in the long-range interdiction role. Development of such an aircraft, if deemed necessary, would not begin until after FY 2005. An F-22 derivative as well as several other alternatives would be considered should a decision be made to pursue development of a new interdiction aircraft.

F-16s, A-10s, and F-15s. The Department’s plan for Air Force tactical fighter/attack aircraft calls for the F-16 multirole fighter force—which constitutes about 50 percent of the force structure—to operate beyond 2020, pending the delivery of replacements from the JSF program. Maintaining force readiness with aircraft whose ages are unprecedented for fighter systems will be a growing challenge in future years. F-15s and A-10s also are planned to operate to the same long, 30-year service life. As previously reported, some 260 F-16s and A-10s have been put into long-term storage as a hedge against the need to carry out long-term refurbishment of operating aircraft. The Air Force plans to begin reactivating a small number of stored A-10s in FY 2004 to offset peacetime attrition and sustain the operating inventory.

The Department has decided to procure 30 new F-16C/D aircraft in the Block 50 (air defense suppression) configuration. Funds for the first ten are requested in FY 2000. Procurement of these aircraft will serve several purposes. The added aircraft permit the formation of an additional air defense suppression-oriented squadron, enabling each of the ten planned aerospace expeditionary forces to have such a unit. Previously, the planned operation of nine such squadrons to meet deployment commitments would have kept their operating tempo above desired levels. The additional aircraft also will provide a sufficient inventory of modern F-16 models to enable all existing Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve fighter squadrons to retain 15 operationally-assigned aircraft. Without the additional procurement, half of those squadrons would have had to reduce their inventories to 12 aircraft as older-model F-16s retired. Operation of fighter squadrons with 12 aircraft would be inefficient, in the absence of any basing consolidation; moreover, provision of modern F-16s for all of these reserve component units will permit them to participate fully in AEF deployments. Finally, continued F-16 procurement will guarantee the continued availability of the F-16 production line until FY 2003, by which time JSF engineering development will have been underway for two years. The prospective sale of 80 improved F-16 variants to the United Arab Emirates also would sustain the production line during this time.

U.S. procurement of F-l5 aircraft ended in FY 1998. Deliveries of F-l5 models to foreign nations will continue at least through FY 1999.

F/A-18. The F/A-18E/F is the Navy’s principal fighter/attack aircraft acquisition program. In addition to providing greatly improved survivability over earlier F/A-18 models, the E/F version will have much greater operational utility due to its larger weapons payload and greater carrier recovery payload. F/A-18E/F aircraft also will increase carrier air-wing flexibility through their ability to refuel other strike-fighters in flight. Earlier F/A-18 models lack the growth potential to accommodate the set of technological improvements, including advanced electronic countermeasure systems and significant radar signature reductions, that will be needed for future operations.

For the longer term, the Navy plans to make the transition to JSF procurement as soon as possible. The acquisition objective for the F/A-18E/F was reduced to between 548 and 785 aircraft in the QDR, depending upon the pace that JSF production can achieve.

The F/A-18E/F’s flight-test program is nearing completion, with the final phase of initial operational test and evaluation (IOT&E) scheduled to begin in May 1999. Most test objectives already have been met during EMD, in particular in the second phase of IOT&E (OT-IIB), conducted during mid-1998. As a result of the OT-IIB evaluation, the Navy’s independent testing command has recommended that the Department continue development of the aircraft, deeming its positive attributes to outweigh the deficiencies that were identified. Performance in air-to-surface attack roles exceeds that possible with the C/D model. The F/A-18E/F achieved a 75 percent success rate in air-to-air combat encounters against currently operational Navy F-14A/D and F/A-18C/D aircraft, despite marginal sustained maneuver deficiencies relative to recent production variants of the F/A-18C.

The OT-IIB evaluation underscored the need for several new systems that had been planned or postulated for use on the F/A-18E/F. A number of those systems, including the AIM-9X short-range air-to-air missile and associated helmet-mounted sight and the Multifunctional Information Distribution System (a tactical data link), are programmed for employment on the F/A-18E/F soon after the aircraft enters operational service. Additional major new capabilities planned for incorporation into the aircraft include a new main computer, a new radar system (incorporating an active electronically-scanned array), and—for a small part of the force—a tactical reconnaissance pod (the Shared Advanced Reconnaissance Pod). Further enhancements will be considered for the aircraft should the final IOT&E evaluation show such modifications to be warranted. The long-term scope and pace for F/A-18E/F improvements will be refined in the defense acquisition process. The resulting enhanced F/A-18E/F is expected to meet the Navy’s operational needs, complemented after FY 2010 by the JSF.

Production of the 32 F/A-18E/Fs funded in FY 1997-1998 is well along, with the first aircraft having been delivered in December 1998. The 30 FY 1999 aircraft were placed on contract in January 1999. Initial operational capability is planned for FY 2001, and the first carrier-based overseas deployment is scheduled for FY 2002. F/A-18E/F support funding provides full allowances of targeting systems and electronic countermeasures equipment, as well as sufficient lesser ancillary equipment (such as fuel tanks and bomb racks) for squadrons on overseas deployments and for training and testing. Stocks of such lesser equipment are planned to be filled by about FY 2006.

B-1. The B-1, which is devoted exclusively to conventional roles, will be the backbone of the future bomber force. By the end of the decade, planned upgrades will give the B-1 an advanced navigation system and an improved communications suite. Major enhancements to the aircraft’s computers and electronic countermeasures system are scheduled to follow around FY 2002; ALE-50 towed decoys will be fielded on the B-1 force beginning in FY 1999. The B-1 can already deliver the entire family of advanced cluster munitions (CBU-87/89/97), increasing its effectiveness against area targets and vehicles in low-threat environments. The JDAM was fielded on B-1 aircraft in FY 1999; WCMD, JSOW, and JASSM are slated to follow in FY 2002.

Installation of radar upgrades and new passive-emitter detection systems on Air Force E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft will continue well into the next decade. The Air Force is providing funding for parallel improvements in NATO E-3s via the NATO AWACS modernization effort. New E-2Cs for the Navy are being produced at a rate of three per year, and both the E-3 and E-2C fleets are receiving reliability and maintainability improvements to keep them viable past the year 2010. Cooperative Engagement Capability subsystems are being installed in E-2Cs to improve targeting of missiles and aircraft.

DoD tactical UAV programs were completely restructured in 1998. Evidence of the military utility of a land-based UAV was provided by the Outrider advanced concept technology demonstration (ACTD); nevertheless, a fully joint program could not be accomplished. Consequently, joint requirements were modified to permit use of more than one type of air vehicle. The Army and Navy now have initiated programs for land-based and sea-based UAV systems, respectively. The Navy seeks to develop a vertical takeoff and landing UAV for use on ships with small landing areas and in urban areas ashore. To ensure joint interoperability, both the Army and Navy UAVs will incorporate the Tactical Control System (TCS), which is designed to permit flexible control of all tactical unmanned air vehicles. TCS also will be used to control Predator endurance UAVs operated by the Air Force. The TCS program itself, originally scheduled to enter low-rate production in FY 1999, was restructured to accommodate changes in tactical UAV fielding schedules. Acquisition of Predator UAVs will conclude in FY 2000, although procurement of attrition aircraft and upgrades will continue through at least FY 2005.

Advancements are being made in air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons carried by fixed-wing tactical aircraft. Improved variants of existing air-to-air missiles will be more lethal and effective across a larger engagement area. Advanced air-to-ground weapons with greater accuracy and longer standoff range will yield important benefits for combat operations, including:

Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). The Air Force and Navy will continue procurement of the AMRAAM throughout the FYDP period. Performance is being enhanced in a number of areas, including kinematics and lethality.

AIM-9X. The AIM-9X is a new short-range air-to-air missile under development by the Air Force and the Navy. An advanced version of the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, it combines the AIM-9M’s motor, fuze, and warhead with a new seeker and airframe. Other enhancements incorporated in the AIM-9X design include a helmet-mounted sight that can align the missile’s seeker head with targets well outside the aircraft radar’s field of view. The combination of improved missile performance and the new helmet-mounted sight will recover an advantage in close-in combat that was lost several years ago when advanced new foreign systems, such as the Russian AA-11, were deployed. Affordability and growth potential are key tenets of this program. The AIM-9X entered engineering and manufacturing development in FY 1997; production is slated to begin in FY 2000.

Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM). The JASSM is a new long-range missile designed to have excellent autonomous navigation capability and an autonomous terminal seeker. JASSM’s standoff capability will enable U.S. aviation forces to hold highly defended targets at risk while minimizing aircraft attrition. A key goal in the system’s development is achieving desired performance while maintaining low unit cost. This Air Force-led joint program is currently entering EMD, with low-rate production slated to begin in FY 2001. The FY 2000 budget includes Navy development funding to ensure that the missile remains suitable for carrier operations. While no Navy procurement for the F/A-18E/F is currently planned, the missile may be considered for future use on both the JSF and F/A-18E/F.

Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW). JSOW is a new long-range glide weapon with autonomous navigation ability. Capable of employment in adverse weather, it will provide an accurate standoff method of delivering tactical munitions at a relatively low cost. The baseline variant, which entered production in FY 1997, carries combined-effects bomblets for use against area targets. To provide standoff antiarmor capability, a follow-on version will carry the BLU-108 payload derived from the Sensor-Fuzed Weapon (described below). EMD for the BLU-108 variant began in FY 1996, and low-rate production will commence in FY 1999. A third variant, incorporating a unitary warhead and autonomous seeker for target discrimination, is also in development. The unitary variant was redesigned over the past year, enabling a significant reduction in acquisition costs without sacrificing the weapon’s overall effectiveness. Production of the unitary variant is slated to begin in FY 2002.

Sensor-Fuzed Weapon (SFW). Designed for top attacks on enemy armor, the SFW is a tactical munitions dispenser containing 10 BLU-108 submunitions, each with four Skeet warheads. This weapon is capable of achieving multiple kills against armored vehicles during day or night and in adverse weather. The system entered full-rate production in FY 1996. Development of an improved BLU-108 submunition for SFW and JSOW began in FY 1996 as part of a preplanned product improvement program; initial production funds were requested in FY 1999. The improved munition will be much more effective than earlier versions at only a small increase in cost. Enhancements include the addition of an active sensor and a multimission warhead and expansion of the weapons pattern over the ground by more than 50 percent. These changes will reduce the system’s susceptibility to countermeasures and improve its soft-target lethality and coverage, while reducing the impact of target location errors.

Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM). The JDAM program modifies existing general-purpose bombs to add an inertial navigation system (INS) coupled to satellite Global Positioning System (GPS) data. INS/GPS guidance will improve bombing accuracy from medium and high altitudes, permitting the delivery of these free-fall munitions in adverse weather. Low-rate production of the MK-84 warhead began in FY 1997; the BLU-109 and MK-83 will follow in FY 1999 and FY 2000, respectively. The Air Force and Navy are currently revising the design of the tailkit for the MK-84 warhead. Additionally, the Navy is pursuing development of a variant with improved accuracy under a product improvement program.

Standoff Land Attack Missile (SLAM). The Navy SLAM is a modified Harpoon antiship missile incorporating a GPS receiver, an AGM-65 Maverick imaging infrared seeker, and a Walleye datalink for man-in-the-loop control. An upgraded version of the missile, designated SLAM-ER, provides an approximately 100 percent increase in range over the baseline SLAM system. The ER version also incorporates enhancements in survivability, anti-jam guidance capability, and hard-target penetration. Improvements in the SLAM-ER’s mission planning system will greatly enhance the weapon’s ease of employment. SLAM-ER Plus, a variant further enhanced by an autonomous terminal seeker, entered production in FY 1998. Approximately 400 SLAM/SLAM-ER missiles will be converted to the SLAM-ER Plus configuration between FY 1999 and FY 2005.

Wind-Corrected Munitions Dispenser (WCMD). The WCMD is a modification kit for advanced cluster bomb dispensers that inertially guides the units to compensate for high-altitude winds, thus improving delivery accuracy. This modification will be made to the CBU-87 (Combined Effects Munition), CBU-89 (Gator), and CBU-97 (SFW). Delivery of production units will begin in FY 1999.

The FY 2000 budget and associated FYDP continue modernization initiatives for naval forces undertaken in response to the QDR. Programmed investments in these forces will sustain and improve naval warfighting capabilities in the decades ahead. More than $7.2 billion has been added to six major shipbuilding programs as part of the defense funding increase approved by the President for FY 2000-2005. This additional investment—representing eight new ships—will help sustain a force of approximately 300 ships well into the next century.

The average age of the fleet is currently at an acceptable level. The combination of new ship deliveries and retirements of aging vessels is projected to keep the fleet’s age within acceptable bounds during the FYDP period and beyond.

The shipbuilding program for FY 2000-2005 is outlined in Table 10.

The FY 2000-2005 program sustains a force of 12 routinely deployable aircraft carriers, consistent with forward presence, crisis-response, and warfighting objectives. The tenth, and final, Nimitz-class carrier (CVN-77) is funded in FY 2001 on the accelerated schedule approved by Congress in 1998. Advance procurement funds for shipbuilder construction and nuclear propulsion components are included in the FY 2000 request.

CVN-77 will serve as a bridge to the next generation of aircraft carriers, designated CVNX. More than $200 million of the approximately $5 billion programmed for CVN-77 through FY 2001 will be used to develop technologies supporting the CVNX class.

Funding has been allocated in later years of the FYDP for continued research and development, advanced planning and design, and advance procurement of CVNX components. Reflecting results from a Navy analysis of alternatives completed in 1998, CVNX carriers will be nuclear powered and will each be capable of supporting an air wing of 75 aircraft.

Affordability considerations preclude a transition to the CVNX configuration in a single step. Consequently, the Navy will develop the new CVNX class through an evolutionary, multi-carrier process. Initial technology efforts and new design features, such as a new island, will be incorporated into CVN-77. CVNX-1, slated to enter construction in FY 2006, will retain the existing Nimitz hull, while adding a new nuclear power plant and an improved electrical generation and distribution system. The FY 2000-2005 program provides funds to develop a new Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System for CVNX-1. A new hull design and substantial system changes are being considered for CVNX-2, which is planned for procurement in FY 2011. Through this evolutionary approach, the Navy seeks to develop a class of carriers that will provide improved warfighting capabilities at a reduced ownership cost.

Investments in amphibious assault ships will continue during the FYDP period, with funds for one additional LHD-class ship programmed in FY 2005. The Navy has procured seven LHDs to date. Acquisition of an eighth ship will provide sufficient large-deck amphibious assault vessels to sustain a 12-ARG force when the first ship of the LHA-1 class reaches the end of its 35-year service life around 2010. Studies being conducted by the Navy are examining cost-effective design changes that could be incorporated into LHD-8.

A key component of the naval expeditionary force is the LCAC. A service-life extension program (SLEP) begun in 1998 will increase the system’s originally planned 20-year operational life to 30 years. This high-speed, fully amphibious landing craft is capable of carrying a 60-ton payload at speeds greater than 40 knots over a range of approximately 200 nautical miles. It rides on a cushion of air, allowing it to operate directly from the well decks of amphibious assault and landing platform dock ships. Carrying equipment, troops, and supplies, the LCAC transits at high speed over the sea and across the beach, quickly offloads its cargo, and then returns to its home ship to take on additional sorties. LCACs provide amphibious task force commanders flexibility in selecting landing sites. Capable of delivering cargo directly onto dry land, they afford access to more than 70 percent of beaches worldwide.

The FY 2000-2005 program continues modernization initiatives for the attack submarine (SSN) force begun in recent years.

Initial sea trials of the Seawolf (SSN-21) confirmed its superior capabilities in all critical warfighting areas. The lead ship was commissioned in 1997. The second submarine was delivered in December 1998, and the third is scheduled for delivery in 2004.

The FY 2000-2005 program sustains a total force of 116 surface combatants throughout the FYDP period. The age of the surface combatant force is relatively low, averaging about 13 years in FY 2000 and a projected 15 years in FY 2005. Continued deliveries of new Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers (DDG-51s) carrying the Aegis weapons system will more than offset continued deactivations of older surface combatants. The share of Aegis-capable ships in the force will increase from 49 percent to 63 percent during the FYDP period.

The FY 2000-2005 shipbuilding program includes funds for 12 DDG-51-class guided-missile destroyers. These state-of-the-art ships are equipped with the Aegis weapon system and the SPY-1D multifunction phased-array radar. The DDG-51 combat system includes the Mk-41 Vertical Launching System, advanced antisubmarine and antiair systems and missiles, and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The new DDG-51s will provide land-attack capability as well as area defenses against ballistic and cruise missile threats. They will be able to operate independently or as part of carrier battle groups, surface action groups, ARGs, or underway replenishment groups. The first Flight IIA variant, launched in FY 1998, incorporates facilities to support two embarked SH-60 LAMPS helicopters, significantly enhancing the ship’s sea control capabilities.

The FY 2000-2005 shipbuilding program begins procurement of the new DD-21 land-attack destroyer. The lead ship is scheduled for funding in FY 2004, with three additional vessels programmed for procurement in FY 2005. Sufficient development funds are allocated in FY 2000-2005 to support this program, but there are potentially significant technological and schedule risks. These risks will be better defined after initial contractor proposals are received and evaluated later this year. The DD-21 will provide firepower at long ranges in support of joint operations ashore. With its state-of-the-art information technologies, it will operate in close coordination with other naval forces, as well as with U.S. ground forces and land-based air forces. The emphasis on sensor-to-shooter connectivity will provide naval or joint task force commanders the flexibility to counter any maritime threat and destroy a variety of land targets. Moreover, the DD-21 will be difficult to detect by potential adversaries.

The shipbuilding program calls for procurement of 12 new T-ADC(X) dry-cargo ships beginning in FY 2000, providing these ships to the fleet two years earlier than previously planned. These multiproduct vessels will replace aging T-AE and T-AFS ammunition and dry cargo ships and AOE-1 fast combat stores ships. They will be designed to carry both dry and refrigerated stores as well as ammunition and a limited amount of fuel. The ships will be procured using commercial business and construction practices to the maximum extent possible to improve affordability.

In addition, the Department has programmed funds to acquire the first two Joint Command Ships in FY 2004 and FY 2005. These vessels will replace the existing command ships at the end of their 40-year service lives.

The primary modernization initiative for the P-3C force is the Antisurface Warfare Improvement Program. Begun in FY 1994, this program is using commercial off-the-shelf technologies to enhance the surveillance, combat identification, and antiship capabilities of the MPA force. Plans call for a total of 42 P-3Cs to be upgraded to the Antisurface Warfare Improvement Program configuration through FY 2000.

The Department conducted an extensive review of mine warfare programs over the past year to ensure that readiness and modernization funding for this critical mission area are sustained as a matter of high priority. The review reaffirmed the cost-effectiveness of the Navy’s planned transition from dedicated mine countermeasure (MCM) forces based in the United States to organic MCM forces deployed with the fleet. As this transition proceeds, the readiness of the current dedicated MCM force will not be sacrificed.

Funding has been increased for several programs to support the transition to an organic MCM capability using airborne, surface, and submarine platforms. Building on the progress achieved in airborne capability with the AQS-20 helicopter-towed sonar program, the FY 2000 budget funds an evolutionary approach for fielding an upgraded sonar for organic forces—the AQS-20/X. This effort is projected to lead to earlier deployment of a new sonar at less cost than previously planned, with initial operational capability attained in FY 2001. In addition, funding has been increased for the Airborne Laser Mine Detection and Airborne Mine Neutralization systems, accelerating their introduction by two years (to FY 2005) and three years (to FY 2002), respectively. A full development program is now funded for the Rapid Airborne Mine Clearance System, with the first units slated for procurement in FY 2005. For surface platforms, development of the Remote Minehunting System has been expanded to provide for incorporation of this capability into LPD-17-class amphibious ships and DD-21-class destroyers. For submarines, additional funding will procure five (versus three) Long-Term Mine Reconnaissance Systems over the FYDP years. Finally, funding has been increased to accelerate the introduction of both the Shallow-Water Assault Breaching and Distributed Explosive Technology systems, enhancing the effectiveness of mine clearance operations in the surf zone.

The ASW programs funded in FY 2000-2005 are generally consistent with those described in the Antisubmarine Warfare Assessment forwarded to Congress in 1998. Several programs have been restructured, including the Advanced Deployable System and the Low-Frequency Active Sonar, both of which will be employed as part of the Navy’s Integrated Undersea Surveillance System. In addition, the acoustic ASW mission for the S-3B aircraft has been terminated due to fiscal constraints and in view of programmed improvements in the organic ASW capabilities of other elements of carrier battle groups, such as the SH-60R.

Standard Missile. The Standard Missile (SM-2) is the Navy’s primary ship-based antiair weapon. The FY 2000 budget maintains previously planned SM-2 Block IIIB production rates and funds low-rate initial production of the newest Standard Missile variant, the SM-2 Block IVA. Block IVA missiles will be capable of defending against threats posed by advanced antiship cruise missiles and selected theater ballistic missiles. A review of the Block IVA’s readiness for full-rate production is planned for FY 2003.

Ship Self-Defense Systems. Integrated ship self-defense is key to the Navy’s ability to operate in forward areas. Major programs in this area include the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) and the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM). RAM is a 5-inch-diameter surface-to-air missile with passive dual-mode radio frequency and an infrared (IR) sensor. The RAM Block 1 IR upgrade will improve performance against advanced ASCMs. The FY 2000-2005 program increases RAM procurement relative to previous plans, providing for production of an additional 200 missiles in FY 2002 and beyond. Plans call for the RAM to be deployed on later-model CG-47s, aircraft carriers, and selected amphibious ships. The ESSM will complement the RAM on aircraft carriers and dock landing ships, defending against threats beyond RAM’s engagement range. The FY 2000 budget initiates low-rate production of the ESSM; a decision on full-rate production is scheduled for FY 2002.

Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC). CEC integrates radar tracking data collected by multiple ships and aircraft and provides this information to each of the ships in a battle group. It enables vessels to engage ASCMs at ranges well beyond their radar horizon, significantly enhancing air defense capability. The FY 2000 budget adjusts the CEC acquisition schedule to allow time to complete testing, ensuring the system’s compatibility and interoperability with other battle group combat systems. Low-rate procurement of CEC systems will be continued for selected ships, with a full-rate production decision planned for FY 2001. The FY 2000 budget sustains research and development efforts supporting the integration of CEC capabilities into E-2C aircraft.

Light Airborne Multipurpose System (LAMPS). The FY 2000 budget continues initiatives to extend the service life of SH-60B LAMPS helicopters and equip them with improved sensors and weapons. The upgraded helicopters, renamed SH-60Rs, will have a dipping sonar, enhancing their effectiveness and survivability in littoral environments. The Flight IIA version of the DDG-51 entered construction in FY 1994 and will join the fleet in FY 2000; it will be the first DDG-51 destroyer capable of operating and supporting SH-60B/R helicopters.

Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS). The FY 2000- 2005 program funds development and procurement of a land-attack version of the Standard Missile (LASM) as an interim solution to the Navy’s fire support needs. Under the LASM program, the Navy will convert obsolete SM-2 Block II/III missiles to surface fire support land-attack missiles to meet near-term operational requirements. Studies are being conducted to determine the best approach to satisfying fire support needs in both the near and far terms. Depending upon the results of these studies, the Navy’s strategy for acquiring land attack missiles may be modified in future years.

The Department continues to emphasize the modernization of U.S. land forces, particularly the programs associated with Army digitization. Digitization refers to the incorporation of state-of-the-art computers, software, and digital radios throughout the Army’s force structure and in key warfighting platforms, such as the M-1 Abrams tank and the M-2 Bradley fighting vehicle. Digitization will enable critical, time-sensitive information comprehensively characterizing friendly and enemy forces to be disseminated rapidly throughout the battlefield. Army digitization and other initiatives, such as Force XXI and the Army After Next, are identifying new concepts of land warfare with revolutionary implications for organization, structure, operations, and support. The advances planned and being tested in information technology, weapons, and platforms will ensure land power remains a decisive element of warfighting well into the 21st century.

Marine Corps modernization programs are driven by the concept of Operational Maneuver From the Sea. Executing this concept will require adaptive and agile forces able to rapidly reorganize and reorient across a broad range of missions and operational environments. Potential modernization initiatives are being tested in the Hunter Warrior, Urban Warrior, and Capable Warrior series of advanced warfighting experiments. Major ongoing Marine Corps modernization programs supported in the FY 2000 budget include the V-22 aircraft, the Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle, and the Marine Corps version of the Joint Strike Fighter.

The newer M1A2 series includes all of the M1A1 features plus a commander’s independent thermal viewer, an independent commander’s weapon station, position navigation equipment, and a digital data bus and radio interface unit providing a common picture among M1A2s on the battlefield.

The Army is pursuing two programs—the M1A1D and the M1A2 System Enhancement Program (SEP)—to provide Abrams tanks with digital command and control (C²) capabilities. The M1A1D adds an applique computer to existing M1A1 tanks to provide the processor and memory necessary for digital command and control. The M1A2 SEP converts older M1 tanks to the latest M1A2 configuration. The SEP enhancements include provision of second-generation forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensors, improved armor, and Pentium processors and memory upgrades required by the Army’s future C² software. Between FY 2001 and FY 2010, the Army will retrofit all 627 of its older M1A2 tanks with the SEP features.

Bradley Fighting Vehicle Upgrade. The A3 upgrade to the Army’s Bradley fighting vehicle system is a major component of the Army digitization initiative, designed to complement the capabilities provided by the M1A2 SEP while incorporating additional enhancements needed to meet future requirements. Upgraded Bradleys will be fielded to units with M1A2 SEP tanks, and will be able to share battlefield data with those units. The digitization upgrades will improve both situational awareness and sustainability through automated fault reporting and diagnostics. The A3 upgrade will also increase the Bradley’s lethality by adding an improved fire control system and a commander’s independent thermal viewer with a second-generation FLIR. Approximately 1,100 Bradley A2s will be remanufactured into A3s. Low-rate production began in FY 1997.

Crusader. This advanced new system will revolutionize Army field artillery operations. Fully automated, computerized, and designed for use on the digital battlefield, the Crusader offers substantial improvements in lethality, survivability, range, and mobility over existing artillery systems. The Crusader consists of a self-propelled howitzer and an artillery resupply vehicle. It will replace the M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer and M992 field artillery ammunition supply vehicle in both early-deploying and forward-deployed units. Production is scheduled to begin in FY 2003, with the first operational unit equipped in FY 2005. A total of 824 Crusader systems (824 self-propelled howitzers and 824 resupply vehicles) are programmed for procurement through FY 2011.

Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV). The AAAV will replace the AAV7A1 amphibious assault vehicle, which is well beyond its originally projected service life. The AAAV will allow Marine forces to launch assaults from points over the horizon, move rapidly to the beach, and continue the attack inland in a seamless operation. It also will provide armor-protected transport and direct fire support to Marine infantry forces ashore. The AAAV will have much greater mobility in the water than the AAV7A1, and will have the speed and cross-country mobility to operate with the Marine Corps’ M1A1 tanks. Development is continuing under a demonstration and validation contract awarded in 1996. Production is scheduled to begin in FY 2004, with a total of 1,013 vehicles planned for procurement. To bridge the gap until the AAAV’s deployment, the Marine Corps is extending the service life of a portion of the existing AAV7 fleet. The service life extension program will equip the AAV7 with the engine and suspension of the Bradley fighting vehicle and replace many aging components, thereby increasing reliability and maintainability while reducing maintenance and repair costs.

Lightweight 155mm Howitzer. Formerly planned for use by both the Army and Marine Corps, this new towed cannon system is now programmed for fielding to Marine forces only. Substantially lighter than the M198 howitzer that it will replace, the LW155 will significantly enhance ship-to-shore mobility, while increasing the survivability and responsiveness of artillery support for ground operations. The howitzer will incorporate an Army-developed digital fire control system with a self-locating capability, further enhancing operational effectiveness. Currently in engineering and manufacturing development, the LW155 is scheduled to enter production in FY 2003. Plans call for acquiring a total of 450 howitzers, with initial operational capability to be achieved in FY 2003. Fielding will be completed in FY 2006.

V-22 Osprey. This tilt-rotor aircraft, being developed to replace the Marine Corps’ aging fleet of CH-46E and CH-53D helicopters, represents a significant advance in technology for providing tactical mobility to ground combat forces. The V-22’s combination of range, speed, and payload is a critical enabler for the modernized force, and its procurement rate has been accelerated to reach 30 aircraft per year in 2003. The Marine Corps plans to acquire 360 V-22 aircraft. Separate acquisition programs include 50 CV-22s modified for Air Force special operations and up to 48 HV-22s for the Navy. Initial operational capability is slated for FY 2001.

4BN/4BW (H-1 Helicopter) Upgrade. The Marine Corps is making extensive improvements to its aging fleets of UH-1N utility and AH-1W attack helicopters. A total of 280 aircraft—100 UH-1Ns and 180 AH-1Ws —will be remanufactured in the coming years. The upgrades will significantly improve operational capability, reduce life-cycle costs (through reliability and maintainability enhancements), and extend the aircraft’s service life. The program is currently in engineering and manufacturing development; procurement is slated to begin in FY 2002.

Brilliant Antiarmor Submunition. The BAT uses advanced acoustic and infrared sensors to seek, identify, attack, and destroy armored vehicles. ATACMS will deliver a single warhead carrying 13 BAT submunitions deep into enemy territory. The submunitions will autonomously disperse to attack their targets, allowing many-on-many engagements. A preplanned product improvement program will add stationary targets—including multiple-launch rocket systems and Scud missile transporters—to the basic BAT target set through seeker and warhead enhancements. Together, the BAT and ATACMS systems will provide superior deep-strike capability to Army forces. BAT will enter low-rate production in 1999.

Sense and Destroy Armor Munition (SADARM). This new top-attack submunition, delivered by 155mm artillery projectiles, is designed to destroy lightly-armored vehicles, primarily self-propelled artillery. Once dispensed from its warhead carrier, SADARM orients itself, then scans and detects its target using dual-mode millimeter-wave and infrared sensors. Operational tests of the submunition in 1998 yielded disappointing results. As a consequence, the Department is reevaluating its strategy for acquiring this system. A decision on future steps will be made in 1999.

Javelin. The Javelin is a medium-range, man-portable, fire-and-forget missile with day-and-night capability and an advanced tandem warhead capable of defeating modern main battle tanks, including those with reactive armor. The system includes two major components: a reusable command launch unit (CLU) sight system and the missile, which is sealed in a disposable launch tube. Other enhancements incorporated in the Javelin’s design include the ability to fire the missile safely from covered fighting positions and to use the CLU sight separately for battlefield detection and surveillance. Javelin began full-rate production in May 1997. The Marine Corps plans to procure 2,553 missiles through FY 2001, while the Army will acquire 24,403 missiles through FY 2003.

Predator Short-Range Assault Weapon. This new fire-and-forget top-attack system will improve the Marine Corps’ short-range antitank capability in the field. A 20-pound weapon with a disposable launcher, Predator will use an inertially-guided autopilot to increase its accuracy. The system is currently in engineering and manufacturing development, with production slated to begin in FY 2001. A total of 18,190 Predator weapons will be acquired; full operational capability is anticipated in FY 2008.

Force XXI is the Army’s concept for modernizing its forces to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Digitization is a key component of Force XXI. The hardware and software composing digitization, and other doctrinal changes, are being evaluated in Army warfighting experiments. Following a series of tests conducted in 1996, 1997, and 1998, an initial operational test of brigade-level and lower maneuver units linked with all support systems is scheduled for late 1999. The knowledge gained from these and future experiments will guide the implementation of Army digitization and the overall Force XXI concept.

Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV). Under this program, the Army is fielding a complete family of medium tactical trucks and companion trailers. The vehicles share a common cab and chassis as well as common engines and transmissions, fuel systems, suspensions, and steering systems. With their off-road mobility and other capability enhancements, FMTV vehicles offer a significant improvement in operational performance over the older 2 1/2-ton and 5-ton trucks they will replace. Their modern design likewise affords improved crew visibility, safety, and comfort relative to previous truck systems. The FMTV will be produced in eight major models—cargo, tractor, wrecker, shop van, expandable van, dump, fuel, and water tanker—with companion trailers. The high degree of commonality among the variants will reduce both production costs and operations and maintenance expenditures. Fielding began in 1996, and approximately 12,000 trucks will have been delivered to the Army by the end of 1999.

A few of the FMTVs currently in service have experienced drive train failures at high speeds while carrying light loads. The Army has issued a speed restriction for highway operations pending resolution of this problem. The correction, involving installation of redesigned and strengthened power train parts, will commence in early 1999. Once the trucks have been retrofitted with the new parts, the speed restriction will be lifted and the fleet will be cleared for unrestricted operations.

Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR). Plans for modernizing the Marine Corps’ tactical truck fleet have been restructured over the past year. Rather than remanufacturing existing 5-ton trucks as contemplated earlier, the Marine Corps now plans to replace its medium tactical truck fleet with new trucks. The new MTVR fleet will be used to move troops, equipment, and supplies; the trucks will be designed to carry more than 7 tons off-road and up to 15 tons on the road. New MTVRs will be designed for 22 years of useful life and will incorporate numerous improvements, including an electronically controlled engine/automatic transmission, an independent suspension, a central tire inflation system, antilock brakes, traction control, and improved safety/ergonomic features. The acquisition objective calls for production of 6,870 trucks.

The FY 2000 budget and associated FYDP continue an ambitious modernization program for mobility forces. The program is designed to replace obsolete equipment with more capable and efficient systems, while adding capacity in selected areas to meet mobility objectives. Highlights of the FY 2000-2005 program are presented below.

C-5. Current investments in the C-5 force focus on avionics modernization and selected engine modifications. Incorporating technological advances in cockpit avionics will improve C-5 operational capability and support continued access to airspace as airspace management criteria become more restrictive. The Air Force is investigating the feasibility of making additional upgrades to the C-5 force that would improve aircraft reliability and availability.

KC-135. The KC-135 tanker force also is being modernized. All KC-135 aircraft are slated to receive avionics upgrades, which will allow a reduction in cockpit crew size from three to two persons. In addition, 45 KC-135s will be reconfigured to accommodate one of 33 multipoint refueling pod sets, enhancing their ability to refuel Navy, Marine Corps, NATO, and other allied aircraft.

Aviation Safety. To enhance passenger aircraft safety, the Department is procuring state-of-the-art accident avoidance systems. Approximately $100 million has been programmed for this purpose in FY 2000. The bulk of these funds will be used to buy Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance Systems and Ground Proximity Warning Systems, which protect against mid-air and ground collisions, respectively.

Global Air Traffic Management. The FY 2000-2005 program includes approximately $4 billion for cockpit modernization efforts. A key portion of these expenditures will ensure that passenger and other aircraft comply with worldwide airspace access criteria, known as Global Air Traffic Management (GATM). Compliance with GATM criteria is necessary to preserve the worldwide deployment capability of U.S. forces, avoid delays, and improve airspace management.

The FY 2000-2005 program continues investments in Air Force prepositioning of air base operation sets in Southwest Asia. The funding plan provides for the reconstitution of sets that have been used to support contingency operations as well as for accelerated procurement of additional sets to enhance responsiveness in a major crisis.

Numerous airfields, ports, and other transportation facilities support the movement of U.S. military personnel and equipment to destinations worldwide. The Army’s Strategic Mobility Program funds improvements to domestic rail, highway, port, and airfield facilities. In addition, DoD maintains airfield facilities overseas for refueling, maintenance, and other enroute support. Today, DoD operates about half the number of overseas airfields that it did in 1990. Therefore, it is increasingly important to keep these facilities in good operating order, and in some cases to enhance their capability. Investments in the Global Transportation Network will improve command and control capabilities, facilitating the tracking of personnel and cargo and enhancing the utilization of transportation resources.

Today, U.S. conventional forces stand ready to support the nation’s defense strategy. The FY 2000 President’s Budget and associated FYDP increase funding for operational readiness, as well as critical facilities and modernization. These actions, in conjunction with initiatives to reduce operating costs, are intended to ensure that the modernization programs planned for FY 2000-2005 can be executed and that the QDR funding target of $60 billion in annual procurement expenditures by FY 2001 can be achieved. In fact, the FY 2000 President’s Budget exceeds this amount annually during the FY 2002-2005 timeframe. The Department’s modernization programs and associated operational initiatives for conventional forces emphasize and, where possible, accelerate the high-payoff programs that will ensure U.S. dominance over any potential threat well into the 21st century.