Enhanced Abilities or Lost Chances? An Examination of the Howitzer Improvement Program's (HIP) Evolving Organization and Doctrine,

This study analyzes factors effecting the organization and employment of the U.S. Armys Howitzer Improvement Program HIP. Since the semi-autonomous HIP evolved from the venerable M109 howitzer, the purpose of the study is to surface considerations that may otherwise be overlooked as a result resistance to change. The analysis begins with an examination of the Soviet counterfire threat and its impact on the HIPs positioning. This initial data is further refined by including the HIPs technical considerations. The study continues with a consideration of the maneuver brigades C3, in particular the impact of terrain management, and the constraints imposed by the Artillerys C3. The study concludes that the optimum HIP battery should contain nine HIPs organized in three platoons of three HIPs each. Based on this recommended organization, the study projects both new and enhanced roles for the direct support artillery battalion. Some of the potential artillery support roles are so inconsistent with current fire support doctrine that resistance to change is anticipated. Accordingly, the study closes with a caution for the professional soldier to keep an open mind when considering new concepts.