pbi said:
Then, the way we're going, we're not going to engage in these kind of ops unless an Ally provides armour sp, the same way we would need AH sp now, or we adjust our tactics in some way. I wonder what the USMC are doing, since they are equipped with the LAV not the Bradley?....
I would rather not have to make a plan that relies so much on the ability or willingness of allies to do the job ("Sorry Colonel, but there is a spot of trouble in my sector; those tanks you need will be delayed"). The Marines have a wide range of kit, including M1 tanks. This is the point, there has to be the right tools available to do the job. Tying kit buys and doctrine to transport and logistics is inside out.
First we need to know what we are expected to do,
then we see what is needed for the sharp end to do the job,
then we work out the supporting arrangements. If this turns out to be too expensive for our political masters, then we must say forthrightly: "No, we cannot do this task".
As for heavy vehicles, I believe that current and near term technology will allow a "convergence" of roles. When Armoured and Infantry platforms can now fire rounds to engage targets from 8-13km away (ground launched "Hellfire" or LAHAT through tube missiles), and improved sensors, communications and command and control systems can give relevant target information to the shooters in real time, then composite units may well emerge. These would use the vehicle mounted systems to engage "hard" targets from direct fire to "light artillery" range, while carrying infantry soldiers to deal with "close" threats. An Achzarit with a remote weapons mount on the deck is a mental starting point, or you could think of the Merkava's ability to carry a section in the back (the Italian Centurio tank destroyer can also be configured to carry a "close support section" of four troops). This will be a nightmare for many traditionalists (Is the team Infantry or Armoured? If there are no dedicated "guns" what happens to the Artillery?), but many new options have to be explored.
If company sized units can pack the fighting power a "combat team" does today, then some of the logistics and transport issues are eased.
Getting back to first principles, why would we want to convert a Leopard to a heavy APC? What role would it play? Do we want to do that role? If you can answer those questions and come up with what role do we need to do that requires such kit, and why it is so important we are able to do that role, then the case for a heavy APC and supporting arms is made.