Today in WW II: 22 May 1939 Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany sign the Pact of Steel, a declaration of trust and cooperation that also included secret provisions on military and economic matters.

M-981 Fire Support Team Vehicle (FIST-V)

The M981 Fire Support Team Vehicle is based upon the M113 Armored Personnel Carrier, in particular the M-901 Improved TOW Vehicle (ITV). It is used as an artillery forward observation vehicle according to the fire support team concept, a mobile operating base for mechanized infantry and armor fire support teams. The FIST-V has secure voice and digital communication capability.

The M981 has a device mounted to the top of it called "The Hammerhead", which enables the Ground Laser Locater Vehicle Designator (GLLVD), a range-finding device, to be used from the inside of the vehicle to provide protection to personnel while calling in fire. The M981 turret is designed to resemble that of the M901 Improved TOW Vehicle, making the vehicle less conspicuous to enemy gunners.

M-981 Fire Support Team Vehicle (FIST-V) at 1st Cavalry Museum, Ft. Hood, TX, 2 December 2005. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.