1、Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21218Updated June 25, 2002Crusader XM2001 Self-Propelled Howitzer:Background and Issues for Congressname redactedSpecialist in National DefenseForeign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Div
2、isionname redactedSpecialist in National DefenseForeign Affairs, Defense, and Trade DivisionSummaryThe Army has been seeking to enhance its self-propelled 155mm artillerycapabilities since the late 1970s. In addition to several programs to modify the M109artillery system, culminating in the current
3、M109A6 Paladin, since 1987 these effortshave focused on what is now called the XM2001 Crusader. Initially begun in order tomatch the mobility and firepower of Soviet artillery, the Crusader program is now thecenter of a controversy over whether it is an appropriate investment given the Armyson-going
4、 transformation to a lighter, more mobile force. Secretary of Defense Rumsfeldhas announced his intent to terminate the program, however the Crusaders supportersin the House and Senate Armed Services Committees are seeking legislative provisionsto maintain the program until at least May 2003 while a
