The US Army has announced a new contract with Northrop Grumman for the production of M136 vehicle-launched anti-tank scatterable ammunition canisters, underscoring a critical initiative to enhance mine-laying capabilities within the military. The contract, valued at $18.8 million, will be funded through fiscal 2024 Building Partner Capacity resources, with an expected completion date set for September 26, 2027.
This move marks a significant revitalization of the Army’s approach to mine warfare, which is increasingly viewed as a strategic deterrent against potential near-peer adversaries in forthcoming military engagements. The Volcano system, which falls under this initiative, has historical roots in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, although it has remained mostly inactive in recent years.
In 2020, the Army had initiated a service life extension program for the Volcano system, extending its operational life by an impressive 15 to 20 years. This extension reflects a renewed emphasis on the importance of scatterable mine capabilities in modern warfare.
The M139 Volcano Mine Delivery System is particularly versatile, capable of being mounted on various platforms, including helicopters and ground vehicles. This adaptability allows for rapid creation of barriers, providing essential protection for troops and equipment while simultaneously impacting the battlefield dynamics.
In the context of today’s warfare, terrain-shaping is crucial; it involves using munitions and other systems to restrict enemy access to strategic areas, thereby impeding their movement and operational effectiveness. The Volcano system is designed to quickly deploy a wide array of mines, both anti-personnel and anti-tank, in mere seconds—capable of covering extensive areas with minimal personnel involvement.
Once dispersed, the mines are engineered to self-orient and arm almost immediately, thereby increasing their effectiveness. Each munition is equipped with a built-in self-destruct timer and safety features aimed at minimizing long-term hazards associated with unexploded ordnance.
The system’s compatibility with a diverse range of military vehicles, including Humvees, Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, and Black Hawk helicopters, enhances its versatility on the battlefield. Notably, the Volcano system has already been deployed by allied nations, including Taiwan and Ukraine, further illustrating its strategic significance in contemporary military operations.
