Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS)

One of the more significant advancements in cannon technology in recent years is the Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS) for U.S. 155-mm howitzers.

MACS is a modular ‘build-to’ charge system that uses granular propellant packaged in a nitrocellulose-based combustible case about the size of a coffee can. Available in two increments (M231 and M232), MACS is compatible with all current and future 155-mm howitzers and has been available to the U.S. Army since March 2004. It will eventually replace the Army’s existing color-coded bag propellant system, significantly reducing logistics (MACS weighs 20 percent less and requires 40 percent less volume than the bag system).

Developers at the U.S. Army’s Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems told CannonArtillery.com in September 2006 that Canadian M777 155-mm howitzer crews had used MACS during recent fire support operations in Afghanistan and early reports back say the crews found MACS to be effective and easy to use.

DVIDS reports that Soldiers at Camp Taji, Iraq recently made history with the MACS propellant. On March 13, 2007, Alpha Battery, 1st Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment used MACS during calibration of their M109A6 Paladin howitzers, “marking the first time ever that MACS has been fired in the combat zone by an entire battery of Paladins”. DVIDS said Alpha Battery will use the MACS in conjunction with the new Excalibur precision-guided, extended range shells, which they will receive training on and implement within the next few months.

MACS provides significant performance, cost and environmental benefits over current 155-mm bag propellants, and it enables the use of automated ammunition handling systems, such as that integrated into the FCS Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon.

With MACS, there are only two propelling charge types from which to choose and only the exact amount needed per shot is expended since the charge is built-up rather than torn-down. This modular build-a-charge design principle of MACS permits weapon systems to achieve greater rates of fire and range and permits conduct of special firing methods such as multiple-round simultaneous impact because of their compatibility with automated systems. Also, there is no longer a need to burn unused powder because unused MACS increments are retained for future missions. 
 

Click here to learn more about MACS propellant.