XM2001 Crusader

   The Crusader prototype 155-mm self propelled howitzer was developed as a replacement for the M109A6 Paladin. The US Army requires about 800 new vehicles of this type. The new artillery system was trialed in 1999. The Crusader was planned to enter service in 2008. Unfortunately the programme was terminated in 2002 because the prototype did not met mobility and precision expectations. However technologies developed for the Crusader were used to produce lighter and more deployable XM1203 NLOS-C (Non-Line-of-Sight cannon).

   The XM2001 Crusader is fitted with a 155-mm howitzer, fitted with a fully-automatic loading system. Maximum rate of fire is 10 rounds per minute and is capable of multiple-round simultaneous-impact firing. A single Crusader self-propelled howitzer can fire up to 8 rounds to strike a single target at the same time. The Crusader has a maximum range of fire in excess of 40 km. A total of 48 rounds are carried. A battery of six Crusaders can deliver 15 tons of ammunition in less than 5 minutes.

   This artillery system has a crew of three. The Crusader sends and receives real-time battlefield information through advanced battlefield management system.

   In general the Crusader is considered to be twice more effective comparing with the M109A6 Paladin.

   Armor of the XM2001 provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle is also fitted with integrated active defense system. NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems were present on this vehicle

   Vehicle was to be powered by a new LV100-5 gas turbine engine, developing 1 500 horsepower. Honeywell International and General Electric were selected to develop a smaller, lighter, quieter moving gas turbine engine with rapid acceleration. Two Crusaders can be carried on a C-5 or C-17 transport aircraft.

   The Crusader is resupplied from the XM2002 ammunition resupply vehicle. The XM2002 can automatically transfer up to 48 rounds of ammunition and fuel in less than 12 minutes under armor in a contaminated environment. The XM2002 itself can be fully loaded with 110 rounds and fuel in less than an hour.