NextGen Aeronautics is partnering with Renmark Pacific in proposing an automated system that relieves the functions of cannoneer, gunner, and assist crew chief in the rapid decision-making process while he/she retains final Go/No-Go authority for each munitions fire decision. The system will satisfy space, weight, and power, safety, and manual bypass requirements. The NextGen team brings innovative technology solutions with their experience in designing complex system of systems and shelf-technologies developed by the company. NextGens shelf technologies and unique experience include complex system-of-systems development, miniature wireless time synchronized sensors and actuators for automation, lightweight advanced composite structural components and testing for military standards qualification. The overall goal is to increase the rate of fire of self-propelled howitzers. The main objective of the NextGen proposal is to design, build, and test subsystems of automated transport and cannon loading system that achieves 12 rounds per minute (desired) with a threshold of 8 rounds per minute. The outcome of Phase I will be a successful Comprehensive Conceptual Design Review (CCDR). After Phase I end, the subsystems preliminary design review will proceed in the first six months of Phase II and detailed design and construction started with successful Critical Design Review in nine months.
