Army news service (July 19, 2005): small arms weapons program reviewed for joint service potential.

The Army announced today it temporarily suspended the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the acquisition of a new family of small weapons--Objective Individual Combat Weapon Increment 1 (OICW-1)--in order to incorporate joint requirements. The Army's proposal has received interest from the other military services, and is further supported by several internal reviews reinforcing the increase in the potential for joint use.

Congressional notification has been made, and today's suspension of the program allows joint requirements to be viewed and incorporated through the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System process, which will occur immediately. Original solicitation started May 11, 2005, and is temporarily suspended effective July 19, 2005, until the Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) convenes, which is currently scheduled for early September.

Upon the JROC's completion, the committee will issue a memorandum, which incorporates any new joint OICW-1 requirements. The RFP will be amended accordingly and issued with a revised effective date for receipt of proposals.

OICW-1 is composed of a family of small arms weapons that consists of a carbine, special compact, designated marksman, and light machine gun weapon systems. These weapons are intended to replace the M4 carbine, the M16 rifle, the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, and selected M9 pistols. The capabilities development document calls for a family of weapons that possesses a high degree of commonality, enhanced capabilities, and much higher reliability than our current weapons.

For more information on the OICW-1 and other Army weapons systems and technology, go to <http://www.army.mil>. Media may direct questions to Army Maj. Desiree Wineland, Office of the Chief, Public Affairs, Media Relations, [phone] or [e-mail].