According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIRPI), global military spending reached its all time high in 2021 and military expenditures exceeded $2 trillion (see Figure 1). SIRPI also mentions; global military spendings has risen since 2014.
One of the main areas where armies throughout the world spend is in ground combat vehicles. For instance, it is estimated that the US Army will spend $5 billion yearly on the acquisition and modernisation of ground combat vehicles. This article seeks to assist military contractors by introducing the benefits and business-enhancing strategies of modernizing ground combat vehicles.
Figure 1: Global military spending.
What is a Combat Vehicles Modernization Strategy?
Combat vehicle modernization strategies are designed to upgrade or replace existing combat vehicles with new or improved technology to meet the changing needs of modern warfare.
Combat vehicle modernization strategy can include a range of activities, including:
- Upgrading existing vehicles.
- Procurement of new vehicles.
- And development of new technologies.
Some examples of combat vehicle modernization strategy include the installation of new weapons systems, the incorporation of advanced sensors and communications technologies, and the development of autonomous capabilities.
Why is the Combat Vehicle Modernization Strategy Important Now?
The importance of combat vehicle modernization strategy cannot be overstated. Modern warfare is increasingly complex, and the threats faced by military forces are constantly evolving. As a result, combat vehicles must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and remain effective on the battlefield.
Combat vehicle modernization strategy helps ensure that military forces have access to the latest technologies and capabilities, which can improve their ability to operate in a variety of environments and conditions. This can include increased situational awareness, improved mobility and maneuverability, and enhanced firepower.
Furthermore, escalating political unrest globally could lead to more armed conflicts. As an illustration, even a small nation like Luxembourg purchased 80 new armored vehicles in 2022 and tripled its military budget during the previous three years.
In such a paradigm, it is essential to make up-to-date all military units including ground combat vehicles.
Figure 2: A Luxembourg Humvee military vehicle on national day.
Top 4 Benefits of Combat Vehicle Modernization Strategy
1. Improved Capability and Performance
One of the primary benefits of combat vehicle modernization strategy is the ability to improve the capability and performance of existing vehicles. Improving:
- Automation capabilities
- Sensors
- Weapons systems
- And communications technologies
can enhance situational awareness, accuracy, and range, giving military forces a significant advantage on the battlefield.
For example, using a mobile automated run-flat tire changer can help military personnel to remove tires in a short time period which enhance operational efficiency.
2. Reduced Costs and Increased Efficiency
Combat vehicle modernization strategy can also lead to reduced costs and increased efficiency in the long run. While there are often upfront costs associated with upgrading or procuring new vehicles, modernized combat vehicles are often more reliable, easier to maintain, and require fewer repairs over time.
3. Enhanced Survivability and Safety
Modernization of combat vehicles can also enhance survivability and safety for personnel. Upgrades to armor and other protective systems can improve the vehicle’s ability to withstand attacks, reducing the risk of injury or death for personnel.
Additionally, the incorporation of autonomous systems and other unmanned technologies can reduce the need for personnel to be exposed to danger in certain situations. For example, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for reconnaissance or to deliver payloads, reducing the risk to ground troops.
4. Increased Interoperability
Combat vehicle modernization strategy can also enhance interoperability between different types of vehicles and systems. This is important for joint operations and coalition missions, where military forces from multiple countries may be operating together.
By adopting common standards and protocols, combat vehicles can communicate and share data effectively, making it easier for different military units to work together towards a common goal.
The Role of The Tires in Modernizing Army Forces
The Army will maintain military vehicle overmatch in close combat against current threats while taking necessary actions to ensure modernization through 2050 and beyond. Modernizing ground vehicles requires further qualification of tires, and this is the second key to the matter. New and retread tires keep military vehicles in operation as well as keeping personnel safe.
It is so important to the U.S. military that it uses more than 400 different types of tires, so the Pentagon calls them “highly critical items.” The modernization of army forces is essential to the future of defense forces, and tires play a crucial role in that future.
How can GM Defensive Serve Combat Vehicles Modernization?
GM Defensive produces military run flat changer machines which can be controlled via remote control. Thus, military personnel can effortlessly change tires of many military vehicles including popular ones such as:
GM Defensive produces 3 models of military run flat changer machines which are:
- GMR-023 Workshop Model: Its design facilitates the quick and simple replacement of run-flat military tires. Workshop model suitable if you want to deploy it at a military base.
- GMH-098 Container Model: A 20-foot container with a current international transit certificate can fit the GMH-098 Run-Flat Tire Change equipment. If you want to move the run-flat changer and have trailers or other such vehicles to carry it, this model is appropriate.
- GMT-099 Trailer Model: This model’s main purpose is to be drivable, which enables the machine to have a mobility function so it can move locations with ease.
The below video shows how GM Defensive’s run flat changer works.
If you need more information regarding our military run-flat tire changers you can reach us by clicking here.
