The U.S. Army recently marked a significant milestone in modern warfare technology with the introduction of the M10 Booker Combat Vehicle.

The vehicle, christened at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland on April 18, 2024, is not merely a new addition to the Army’s arsenal; it is also a tribute to the bravery of two American soldiers—Pvt. Robert D. Booker and Staff Sgt. Stevon A. Booker.

Named after these heroes, the M10 Booker is a direct-fire combat vehicle developed by General Dynamics Land Systems. It stands out with its 105 mm cannon, which adds a powerful punch to the infantry’s capabilities, and advanced sensors that give it an edge in night and urban combat scenarios.

The Booker is designed to significantly boost the firepower and protection of light maneuver forces, embodying the Army’s commitment to equipping its soldiers with cutting-edge technology.

Maj. Gen. Glenn A. Dean III, program executive officer with Ground Combat Systems, emphasized the importance of this new vehicle: “They need the indomitable will and the boundless confidence that comes from knowing they do not sacrifice needlessly or alone.”

This new asset, now part of the Army’s main crisis response division, the 82nd Airborne Division, is expected to further enhance the division’s capabilities. The 3rd Battalion, 73rd Cavalry Regiment will likely transform into the division’s traditional armor unit, reflecting a shift in their mission from reconnaissance to robust infantry support.

The Booker Combat Vehicle (BCV) is a prime example of modern military innovation. It bears a resemblance to a tank but is distinct in its role and capabilities. Weighing in at approximately 38-42 tons, the M10 is significantly lighter than the 73-ton M1A2 SEPv3 main battle tank.

It combines the qualities of traditional light tanks with the versatility of the World War II German assault gun concept—providing direct support to infantry units by swiftly neutralizing enemy bunkers, fortifications, and defensive positions.

The M10 Booker’s main gun, the M35, is capable of firing a variety of rounds, including the formidable M900 Armored Piercing, Fin Stabilized, Discarding Sabot Tracer round, which can penetrate modern tank armor.

Another specialized ammunition is the M1040 canister round, likened to a shotgun blast, designed to decimate enemy infantry squads at close range.

The Army plans to purchase 504 M10 Bookers by 2035, aiming to establish armored battalions within light infantry divisions and brigades that traditionally lack armored vehicles. As the Army undergoes its most significant transformation in decades, the M10 Booker is set to play a crucial role in achieving dominance in large-scale combat operations across multiple domains.

Assistant Secretary of the Army Doug Bush stressed the vehicle’s importance to the Army’s strategic evolution: “The Army is undertaking its most significant transformation in several decades to dominate in large-scale combat operations in a multidomain environment, and the M10 Booker is a crucial part of that transformation.”

Following intensive testing—including production qualification and evaluations in diverse environmental conditions, and realistic threat engagements—the first operational company of M10 Booker Combat Vehicles is scheduled to be fielded with the 82nd Airborne by the summer of 2025.

The M10 Booker’s development process, which took under four years from conception to production, stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between the acquisition and requirement communities within the U.S. Army.

As the infantry eagerly awaits the operational deployment of this remarkable machine, the M10 Booker promises to be a game-changer on the battlefield, embodying both innovation and respect for military tradition. It is a fitting homage to the soldiers after whom it is named, ensuring that their legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire and protect future generations of warriors.

Relevant articles:
– The Army’s M10 Booker Combat Vehicle Has Arrived, The National Interest
– The Army’s New M10 Booker Looks, Rolls, and Fires Like a Tank. But Please Don’t Call It One., popularmechanics.com
– Army takes delivery of first M10 Booker Combat Vehicle, Army.mil
– First M10 Booker Armored Fighting Vehicle Delivered to US Army, The Defense Post