No, the U.S. Army is not getting rid of all Stryker vehicles; rather, it is specifically divesting the Stryker Mobile Gun System (MGS) variant.
Divestiture of the Stryker Mobile Gun System
The U.S. Army announced its decision to divest all Stryker Mobile Gun Systems by the end of fiscal year 2022. This targeted action focuses solely on the MGS, a variant designed to provide direct fire support to infantry units with its 105mm gun.
Understanding the Stryker Family of Vehicles
It is important to note that the Stryker is a versatile family of eight-wheeled armored fighting vehicles, comprising many different configurations designed for various roles. The MGS is just one part of this broader fleet. Other crucial variants will continue to serve as integral components of the Army's Stryker Brigades.
To illustrate the distinction between the divested MGS and the remaining fleet, consider the following:
| Stryker Variant | Status | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Gun System (MGS) | Divested by end of FY 2022 | Direct fire support with 105mm gun |
| Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) | Remaining in Service | Transporting infantry, protected mobility |
| Commander's Vehicle (CV) | Remaining in Service | Command and control for commanders |
| Medical Evacuation Vehicle (MEV) | Remaining in Service | Battlefield casualty evacuation |
| Reconnaissance Vehicle (RV) | Remaining in Service | Scouting and intelligence gathering |
| And other specialized variants | Remaining in Service | Various specialized support roles |
Implications for Army Modernization
The divestiture of the MGS reflects the Army's ongoing efforts to modernize its forces and optimize its vehicle fleet for future operational environments. This strategic decision allows the Army to reallocate resources and focus on platforms that better align with evolving threats and technological advancements, while maintaining the core capabilities provided by other Stryker vehicle variants. The continued presence of other Stryker variants ensures that Stryker Brigades retain their versatility and mobility on the battlefield.
