The Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport programme (S-MET), is an initiative by the US Army that provides infantry brigade fight teams (IBCT), with the ability to quickly field advanced capabilities while increasing the physical and mental workloads of Soldiers. The "Other Transactional Authority" strategy was developed by the Program Executive Office for Combat Support and Combat Service Support. It's a collaborative tool to expedite the modernization of equipment and preserve high quality.
S-MET provides IBCTs with the ability transport more equipment and extend radio communications range while carrying essential supplies. S-MET vehicles will eventually be installed in every US Army unit. 624 platforms are expected to be delivered by 2024. These platforms will serve a multitude of missions, such as digging fighting positions or filling Hesco walls, and carrying special mission-centric gear.
To improve the program's efficiency, PEO CS&CSS worked with the Product Management Office for Applique and Large Unmanned Systems to develop a strategy for streamlined procurement. Innovative integration methods allow the SMET program to deliver better performance for FLRAA/FARA.
The SMET program will provide training for IBCTs on the use of system technology in its first year. The Army will be collecting operational feedback during this time. This feedback will then be used to identify a system to produce. To determine the best vehicle for the program, the Army will do a technology demonstration. Additionally, copies of SMET vehicles will be given to two Army Infantry units.
Two main components of the program are Phase I Assessment (September 2017) and Phase II Technology Demonstration (April 2018). Both assessments involve early soldier testing to determine if the systems are functional, durable, and efficient.
Phase I evaluation provided the Army with an overview of candidate systems and potential ways to reduce Soldier burden. The program also allowed the Army to assess whether existing solutions in industry are suitable for the program. The program will ultimately create an unmanned, electric-powered charging station mobile for Soldiers on patrol.
After the Phase 1 assessment, the Army reduced the number of contenders to four: General Dynamics. Textron. HDT Global. Neya Systems LLC. Each of the four candidates included a small remote controller.
The Army will pick a single vehicle to meet its needs as a result the Phase II Technology Demonstration. Once the Army has made its selection, production will begin at low rates. Within five-years, every US Army infantry regiment will be equipped by an SMET. These vehicles will be made in approximately six-hundred units, with the first one receiving them in mid-2021.
Additional capabilities could be added to SMET as the program develops. Dismounted engineer mobility systems, and unmanned aerial system are two possible options. Future modifications could allow for a teleoperation feedback system. To meet mission specific requirements, modular mission payloads may be made.