EFV..."We took a few shortcuts...that probably didn't pan out..."

Hat tip to Johnathan for sending the bad news (just kidding..keep'em coming).

Johnathan sent me this article from BusinessWeek.  Suffice it to say that the long knives are out and still aiming for the EFV.  Of all the programs under development or about to be developed, only two have me seriously questioning Marine Corps leadership.  The first is the Infantry Automatic Rifle.  Who the hell needs a fully automatic M16A4?  A modern day Browning Automatic Rifle?  We're asking our Marines to give up their suppressive fire at the squad level?  Who's brilliant idea was that?  Oh and don't tell me its going to fixed when the Corps fields 150 round drum magazines for it...then you're halfway back to the SAW.  Dumb move.  Show some chops by canceling that pigeon now.

The next of course is the EFV.  I really like what I see of the vehicle.  I love the rapid ship to shore speed it has, its ability to keep up with M1 Abrams and the massive firepower it'll bring with its 30mm cannon.

What I don't like are all the missteps in development.

What also irks me is the statement by Colonel Moore.  This from KFMB-Tv Channel 8 in San Diego.




Did you notice the phrase?  "We took some shortcuts to save money that probably didn't pan out...?"

The most important weapon system for the Ground Combat Element and you're taking shortcuts?

Seriously?

Really?

What The Fuck Sir!

To be honest, as much as I like this vehicle.  As much as I think its necessary.  The Marine Corps screwed the pooch on this one.

There was no sense of urgency by either the manufacturer or the USMC.

Costs were allowed to balloon.

Justification for its mission hasn't been consistently defended.

We should have done better.

Last minute pushes to get needed systems across the finish line won't cut it anymore.