Executive Summary
The Marine Corps' Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) program is developing and fielding several variants to replace the aging Assault Amphibious Vehicle, with initial operational capability achieved in 2020. The program has faced operational mishaps and cost growth, leading to contract negotiations and a revised procurement plan. Congress is considering lessons from the Ukraine conflict regarding ACV vulnerability and potential future requirements.
Why It Matters
This document provides an overview of the Marine Corps' ACV program, detailing its variants, procurement status, operational challenges, and future considerations, which is crucial for understanding US amphibious capabilities and defense spending. It also highlights the impact of lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict on armored vehicle survivability.
Key Takeaways
- The ACV program includes four variants (ACV-P, ACV-C, ACV-R, ACV-30) designed for tactical mobility and fire support, with a total planned procurement of 608 vehicles.
Source evidence · PDF page 1
Four ACV variants are planned: (1) a Personnel Variant (ACV-P) that can carry 3 crewmembers with 13 Marines and 2 days of combat equipment and supplies; (2) a Command-and-Control Variant (ACV-C); (3) a Recovery Variant (ACV-R); and (4) a 30-mm Gun Variant (ACV-30).
- Operational mishaps during training in 2022 led to a temporary suspension of amphibious operations and subsequent implementation of new safety protocols for surf conditions.
Source evidence · PDF page 2
Reportedly, on July 19, 2022, two ACVs were involved in accidents while training off the coast of California during high surf conditions. According to the Marines, one ACV tipped onto its side in the surf zone and another became disabled during the training.
- Congress is evaluating the ACV's vulnerability to modern threats like ATGMs and UASs, drawing lessons from the Ukraine conflict, and considering future procurement needs based on Marine Corps growth plans.
Source evidence · PDF page 2
There are several military observations resulting from the Ukraine conflict. One observation is that armored vehicles allegedly have proven highly vulnerable to anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), armed uncrewed aerial systems (UASs), and loitering munitions.
Strategic Relevance
The ACV program is central to the Marine Corps' Force Design modernization efforts, enhancing amphibious assault capabilities and tactical mobility. Its performance and survivability against contemporary threats, especially in light of lessons from Ukraine, are critical for future expeditionary operations and strategic power projection.