Fort Hood begins testing new Paladin artillery system

by David A. Bryant, Herald staff writer

An M109A7 Paladin fires a 155 millimeter artillery round while undergoing an Initial Operational Test on Fort Hood. (Photo by Larry Furnace, Test and Documentation Team, Operational Test Command)

FORT HOOD — Artillery soldiers will begin testing the new M109A7 Paladin version self-propelled Howitzer cannon Thursday on the post’s ranges.

Artillery soldiers with the 3rd Battalion, 16th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division will work with Operational Test Command test officers, noncommissioned officers and civilians to provide the human element necessary for training hard under realistic operational scenarios against a formidable opposing force.

The assessment will determine whether or not the new Paladin is effective, suitable and survivable, and is another step in the Army’s continual modernization of its equipment using information soldiers learn during combat and translating it into improved battlefield capabilities through operational testing.

OTC is required by law to test major systems before they are fielded to its ultimate customer — the American soldier. Its mission is to ensure systems developed are effective in a soldier’s hands and suitable for the environments in which soldiers train and fight. Testing is expected to continue through November.