Institutional memory.
Most times its a great thing to have. If the memory is long and the organization is able to pass along the "what works" and "what doesn't" then that organization has a much greater chance for success.
In the 1950's the USMC was smitten with the possibilities of helo-assaults. In the mode of embracing this new development in warfare, the M422 Mighty Mite was born.
Its time in service was short though. Helicopters evolved and a normal sized jeep was sling loadable with the introduction of the Huey and much more importantly the CH-46. Fast forward to today and once again, the Marine Corps is attempting another revolution in warfare with the V-22. In an attempt to make it work, the EFSS was born. It comprises a 120mm mortar and an internally carried vehicle which looks remarkably like a modernized M422 Mighty Mite.
The whole theory surrounding the EFSS (expeditionary fire support system) is that artillery fires should be internally carried by the V-22, to include its prime mover.
There was little to no debate on the merits of a standard 120mm mortar. The original Dragon Fire concept from which the EFSS was born was based on an automatically firing 120mm mortar that could be emplaced, left and fired remotely at targets entered into its computer. What we have now is a far cry from that futuristic vision (which was made to work)....
The difference now is that there's a debate on whether the 120mm Mortar or the 105mm Howitzer should be the early entry fire support weapon for the Marines.
Read about it here.
