Thunderous Transformation: 3-16 FA’s Modernization of the M109A7 Paladin

The M109A7 Paladin begins a new chapter in the world of field artillery with enhanced capabilities and features that will play a critical role in today's battlefield. The latest artillery piece can move and shoot twice as fast as its predecessor to secure and occupy tactical key-terrain. 1st Cavalry Division field artillery unit, 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, "Rolling Thunder," recently received the M109A7 Paladin and are preparing to utilize them in the National Training Center commonly referred to as NTC at Fort Irwin, California. 

“Rolling Thunder” is one of only two field artillery units in the 1st Cavalry Division that fielded the M109A7 Paladin. With the unit's rigorous train-up centered around preparation for NTC in October, they will undergo a month of Operator New Equipment Training, also known as OPNET, for a month before taking the Paladins out for a live-fire exercise. Once OPNET is complete, the batteries will conduct artillery tables I-VI. This training focuses on processing fire missions in the new digital fire control system, troubleshooting communications between the Fire Direction Center, and the Paladin. 

There are many technological advancements and features in the M109A7 that make it a significant asset on the battlefield. One important feature is the M109A7 chassis design which features track and suspension components similar to the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle. This further improved the Paladin's supportability and reduced the unit's logistical footprint. Another feature of the responsiveness of the M109A7 is the ability to perform the "shoot and scoot" method, giving it the capability to avoid counter-battery fire. It also possesses an onboard position navigation system and fire control system capable of executing missions digitally and via secure voice command. Lastly, a important feature of the M109A7 is the onboard computer with comprehensive diagnostics programs that rapidly pinpoint equipment issues early for ease of maintenance while improving system availability. 

These advancements and critical features significantly impacted “Rolling Thunder’s” training as they prepare for NTC. In an interview with Lt. Col. Simon Welte, 3-16 FA "Rolling Thunder" Battalion Commander, he expressed a positive outlook for the unit as they embark on modernization with the M109A7. He stated, "The M109A7 has positively impacted weapons system, helping us become more accurate and timely based on components of the system."  The contributions this artillery piece continues to offer play a pivotal role in achieving success as they progress through modernization. 

A notable difference from its predecessor is the logistics dynamic of the M109A7 in the area of maintenance. The sustainability and logistics enhancements within the M109A7 are paramount, representing a profound evolution in the Army's operational readiness. For instance, Lt. Col. Welte's spoke on the outlook of the maintenance of the M109A7, he stated, "Maintenance on the M109A7 is far more optimized than the M109A6 in the ability to validate faults and also determine maintenance faster with the validation being more digitized."  By optimizing maintenance protocols, the Paladin ensures prolonged deployment capabilities crucial for extended missions. Such improvements minimize logistical strain but also enhance adaptability, allowing for rapid response time to dynamic simulated battlefield scenarios. This critical progression underlines the Paladin's transformation into a versatile and reliable asset, ready to meet the demands of modern warfare.  

As 3-16 FA trains for NTC in the fall, their mission with the M109A7 is to demonstrate mission readiness and lethality in simulated warfare scenarios. Soldiers are especially enthusiastic about this new artillery piece. When talking with the Soldiers, they were very excited about the new artillery piece and impressed with the latest features. They were specifically impressed with the loading system, which was far more reliable in ensuring rounds were seated appropriately for accurate fires. Staff Sergeant Romello Johnson Gunnery Sergeant for “Rolling Thunder” stated, “The loading system for the M109A7 enhances operational efficiency in its advanced design and streamlines the process of the crew drills ensuring accurate fires.” Now, with 3-16 FA equipped with the modernized Paladin, their objective is to showcase seamless integration of advanced firepower, enhanced mobility, and optimized sustainability and logistics. By leveraging the capabilities of the M109A7, 3-16 FA aims to achieve success in upholding firing superiority and as a formidable force on the battlefield. With rigorous training and meticulous preparation, 3-16 FA stands ready to excel at NTC, reaffirming their commitment to excellence and ensuring lethality on the battlefield. 

The new technological improvements, sustainability, and logistics, of the new M109A7 Paladin, coupled with the mission objectives of the unit underscore a transformative era in the world of artillery. Through the modernization of their artillery, 3-16 FA has not only elevated its operational capabilities, but also set a new standard for efficiency and effectiveness on the battlefield. Integrating advanced technologies and logistical processes ensures longevity on the battlefield and enhanced adaptability in combat environments. As 3-16 FA prepares for NTC, they stand poised to demonstrate their unwavering commitment to being a formidable force ready to meet the challenges of modern large-scale combat operations.

1LT Lane is a highly accomplished Field Artillery officer, serving as a subject matter expert under the mentorship of his platoon sergeant and non-commissioned officers. He has served as a platoon leader and AS3 while deployed to EUCOM for Operation Assure, Deter, and Reinforce alongside NATO allies. With successful administration of large-scale combat operations, strategic planning, and operational management, he has contributed to the success of countless missions, displaying the capacity to lead and innovate under duress. His publications are featured on the official Army website, and demonstrates his steadfast dedication to expanding his Soldiers knowledge. His goal is to educate and motivate the Field Artillery community through contributions to professional publications highlighting shared experiences and achievements of the branch.