Rapid Fire 2011-10-12: US Ground Force Capabilities

• As expected, Egypt picks Lockheed Martin’s Sniper targeting pods to equip its new F-16s. Even as the words “targeting” and “Egypt” seems to refer more often to its Copt Christians.

• US Army Top 2010 Inventions: infrared illuminating cartridges (i.e. the target can’t trace incoming fire back to its source unless they’re equipped with night vision too), 5.56mm bullets with higher steel penetration, “green light” visual deterrent, the Husky Mark III/2G landmine detection vehicle, faster mortar fire control systems and more. [Note: the list was released last month but the ceremony to honor the award winners took place yesterday.]

• The Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) is pondering the future of American ground force capabilities [PDF], starting from the realization that while it’s attractive to think the future will require less “boots on the ground” vs. naval, air and special operations projection, it’s not like we haven’t heard that song before. The think tank concludes ground forces will remain more relevant and in demand than many expect.