OICW concept was put on haitus if I remember correctly... too expensive
Quite the contraire, the OICW is part of the Land Warrior system and is set for production as planned. And its is more expensive than the M-16 but it will not replace all of the M-16’s some of the M-16’s will be replaced by the XM-8 and some by the XM-29.
Initial fielding of the XM29 is currently scheduled for GFY08. The XM29 program has implemented a block upgrade or "evolutionary" approach to fielding the weapon system. This encompasses an "initial fielding" of a "Block 1" system, which is designed to enable insertion of future technology enhancements. This approach will expedite completion and qualification of the initial Block 1 design, while preplanning future upgrades, such as advances in sensors and electronics technologies, MEMS fuze elements, advanced composites and materials, fuel cells, Nano technologies, ceramic gun barrels, wireless connectors, and future digital technology. These enhancements will help further reduce system weight, increase lethality, improve ruggedness, and increase system reliability and effectiveness beyond the Block 1 design. The XM29 project schedule is aligned so the First Unit Equipped (FUE) supports the fielding of the Future Combat System (FCS). This positions the Block 1 XM29 FUE in GFY08.
The OICW will not replace all of the M16s/M4s.
The current U.S. Army Basis of Issue (BOI) is 4 OICW weapon systems per 9-man squad.
www.globalsecurity.org...
This picture explains how the XM-29 and XM-8 will be issued in the future.
Maximum effective range: 15 meters
