M60 SHILLELAGH TANK ("STARSHIP")

The M60 Shillelagh Tank (M60A2), also known as the "Starship," was a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) under the Major Capability Acquisition pathway. This acquisition program supported the procurement of parts, components, and maintenance items for the M60A2 tank platform, which featured specialized armament and fire control systems. The program appears to have managed sustainment and logistics support for existing M60A2 tanks rather than new production vehicles.

The federal contract awards associated with this program primarily focused on acquiring mechanical components, electrical systems, and specialized parts such as periscopes, cylinder heads, fuel injection systems, and wiring harnesses. Contract values typically ranged from small purchases of a few thousand dollars to larger awards of up to $2 million, with performance periods generally spanning 6 months to 2 years. Total Small Business set-asides were frequently utilized, though some larger contracts were awarded without set-aside restrictions. Major contractors included companies specializing in military vehicle components, such as Starwin Industries, Korel Savunma Ltd., and various small business manufacturers. The Defense Logistics Agency and U.S. Army TACOM served as primary contracting agencies. Contract types were predominantly Firm Fixed Price, executed through a mix of Purchase Orders, Delivery Orders, and Definitive Contracts.