US Army Upgrades Infantry Support with M10 Booker Vehicle

As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, the US Army has recently focused on testing the M10 Booker armored infantry support vehicle at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona.

This test, part of the Army’s top modernization priorities, marks a significant step in upgrading the capabilities of infantry combat units.

Designed to provide critical armored support to infantry troops, the M10 Booker offers enhanced firepower, mobility, and durability, setting a new standard for battlefield vehicles.

Let’s take a closer look.

A Glimpse into the M10 Booker’s Development

The M10 Booker isn’t an ordinary infantry support vehicle—it’s a robust and versatile platform that builds on the Army’s long history of armored vehicle innovations.

Originally conceived as part of the Pentagon’s Mobile Protected Firepower (MPF) program, the M10 Booker was specifically designed to meet the Army’s needs for a highly mobile armored vehicle capable of supporting infantry units with heavy firepower.

While not classified as a battle tank, it is a potent addition to the Army’s arsenal, bridging the gap between traditional armored vehicles and more agile combat platforms.

Development of the M10 Booker began in earnest with a competition testing phase held at Yuma Proving Ground in 2020. It was during this period that the vehicle’s key features were tested against various prototypes.

The M10 Booker emerged as the standout design due to its ability to provide effective support while maintaining mobility—key attributes for a vehicle meant to accompany infantry units.

Following these trials, the Army began refining the vehicle, eventually awarding a $322.7-million contract to General Dynamics for low-rate initial production in 2023.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

At the heart of the M10 Booker lies a formidable array of weapons and advanced features designed to provide maximum support for infantry operations.

The vehicle’s primary armament is the M35 105mm low-recoil tank gun, a significant upgrade from the Bradley’s 25mm chain gun.

In addition, it is equipped with a 12.7mm M2 heavy machine gun and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, offering a versatile range of firepower to engage various targets on the battlefield.

The M10 Booker’s weaponry is supported by a high-performance diesel engine that delivers 800 horsepower, enabling the vehicle to reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour—impressive for a vehicle of its size and firepower.

The M10 Booker is designed for a four-person crew, making it more compact and maneuverable compared to other large armored vehicles.

Despite its size, the vehicle is lightweight—comparable in weight to the Bradley Fighting Vehicle—and can be rapidly deployed by infantry brigades. It is compact enough to fit two M10 Bookers in a C-17 transport plane, allowing it to be swiftly mobilized in various theaters of operation.

One of the standout features of the M10 Booker is its advanced hydraulic suspension, which is similar to the high-end running gear tested on Bradley surrogate vehicles in prior trials. This suspension system allows the M10 Booker to handle punishing terrain, steep slopes, and obstacles like water fording basins, all while maintaining stability and reliability.

This rugged mobility makes it ideal for supporting infantry operations in difficult and diverse environments.

Comprehensive Testing at Yuma Proving Ground

The Army’s ongoing testing at Yuma Proving Ground encompasses several critical performance and reliability assessments.

These include test-firing of the vehicle’s weapon systems in both natural environments and cold chambers, ensuring that the vehicle can operate in extreme conditions.

The M10 Booker is subjected to grueling desert road courses, steep inclines, and watery fording basins—all designed to push the vehicle to its limits and evaluate its durability under real-world conditions.

In addition to the standard operational tests, the Army is conducting cold-weather testing at Fort Greely, Alaska, to evaluate the M10’s performance in sub-zero temperatures. This multi-environment testing ensures that the M10 Booker is prepared for any condition it might encounter in the field, from scorching desert heat to frozen tundra.

Personnel from various divisions are actively involved in familiarizing themselves with the vehicle, undergoing training to ensure they are fully prepared to operate the M10 Booker under all conditions. This comprehensive approach is critical for ensuring that the vehicle meets all necessary standards before full-rate production is authorized.

Implications for the Future of the Army

The M10 Booker represents a major leap forward in the Army’s efforts to modernize and enhance its infantry combat capabilities. By combining firepower, mobility, and durability in a highly compact form, the M10 Booker fills a crucial gap in the Army’s vehicle lineup.

It will provide infantry units with the heavy support they need without sacrificing speed and mobility, making it a game-changer in modern warfare.

This vehicle’s capabilities align with the Army’s strategic goal of enhancing its ability to deploy rapidly and operate in diverse, high-intensity combat environments.

With over 500 vehicles planned for acquisition, the M10 Booker will play a pivotal role in future combat operations, enhancing the Army’s ability to conduct dynamic, fast-paced operations in a variety of terrains and conditions.

Furthermore, the M10 Booker serves as a symbol of the Army’s commitment to modernizing its equipment and staying ahead of the technological curve.

The continued testing and refinement of this vehicle demonstrate the Army’s dedication to ensuring that its forces are equipped with the best tools for the job, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and safety of those on the frontlines.

Final Thoughts

The M10 Booker armored infantry support vehicle is an exciting development in the US Army’s modernization efforts. With its impressive weaponry, enhanced mobility, and rugged durability, the M10 Booker will serve as a critical asset for infantry combat units, ensuring they are supported with the firepower and flexibility needed to face future threats.