Book excerpt: The research explores the utility of the Crusader system, a next-generation self-propelled howitzer and resupply vehicle, to the future of the U.S. Army, including both the near-term Army XXI and the farther-term Army After Next. Specific questions were asked about Crusader's ability to provide firepower on the future battlefield and to serve as a major technology "carrier" into the Army After Next era. The report answers these questions and addresses other issues that may surface in considering the relative need for a state-of-the-art, self-propelled howitzer in light of other Army interests.