Within the framework of the selection program for the future Wheeled Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle, the Logistics Command (COLOG) of the Brazilian Army (EB) has announced, through a statement, the preselected models according to the previously established requirements.
According to the technical requirements indicated in the tender document, the future WSPAs must have, as their main armament integrated into the vehicle, a 155 mm NATO standard howitzer capable of firing both conventional and special ammunition, with a total length of (at least) 52 calibers and a service life of <2,000 shots at maximum charge, and a range of over 500 km.
Likewise, they must have precision impact capability between DPA < 80 meters and DPA < 120 meters on targets at a distance equal to or greater than 20 km (conventional ammunition) and 30 km (assisted ammunition) respectively, with a minimum storage and transportation capacity for 16 (sixteen) complete shots.
As mobility in terrain is one of the sought-after characteristics in self-propelled artillery pieces, the future Brazilian WSPA must be capable of aiming and firing within 3 minutes after assuming position, and leaving the position, after firing, in less than 2 minutes. Additionally, they must have at least a semi-automatic projectile loading system and fire at a continuous rate of at least four shots per minute.
It is noteworthy that the preselection includes North Industries Corporation (Norinco) with their SH15 6×6, Elbit Systems Land Ltd. with the ATMOS 6×6, Nexter Systems with the CAESAR 6×6, and Excalibur International a.s. with the Zuzana 2 8×8.
Norinco SH15 6×6
Based on a Shaanxi 6×6 traction chassis, the SH15 features a 155 mm cannon, based on the AH-2 155 mm/L52 Howitzer. It has the capacity to fire NATO standard 155 mm ammunition, to which Norinco-developed ammunition can be added. It has a maximum range of up to 53 kilometers using rocket-assisted V-LAP ammunition.
The first versions of this WSPA were introduced in 2017, having been exported to Ethiopia and Pakistan after being incorporated into the Chinese Army in 2018. Its layout is similar to that of the French Nexter CAESAR, being developed to replace PL-66 pieces.
ATMOS 6×6
The ATMOS is a 155 mm, 52 caliber truck-mounted howitzer that offers the advantages of superior firepower, improved mobility, and rapid response time. Highly adaptable, the modular ATMOS system can be mounted on both a 6×6 and an 8×8 high-mobility truck. ATMOS provides fire support for all types of missions and can easily interconnect with the existing C4I systems of customers.
One of its main features is the incorporation of an integrated electronic set, along with an automatic laying system and automatic loading system. Weighing 22 tons, the AMOS has an effective range of 30 – 41 km, distinguished by its maximum travel speed of 100 km/h.
CAESAR 6×6
The CAESAR is a 155 mm/L52 self-propelled howitzer that features a fully automated ammunition loading system with a maximum firing rate of 6 projectiles per minute. Its latest version, called CAESAR MkII, is based on the advantages provided by the platform produced by Arquus, which incorporates a new chassis, a new automatic gearbox, and a 460 horsepower engine, compared to the 215 horsepower of the MkI model.
Additionally, the new STANAG level 2 armored cabin offers protection against light and medium weapons projectiles, artillery shell fragments, and mines/improvised explosive devices, maintaining the virtues of its 155mm/52 cannon and fire control system, which allow it to fire 6 shots in a minute and engage targets at distances greater than 40 kilometers.
Zuzana 2 8×8
Regarding the Zuzana 2 WSPAs, they constitute a self-propelled autonomous artillery system with automatic ammunition loading that is capable of providing effective fire both with direct and indirect aiming. This system is characterized by its long range and precision, high rate of fire, quick preparation for fire, and excellent maneuverability.
Based on the chassis of a four-axle TATRA truck, it stands out for its central tire inflation system that allows the driver to change the tire pressure during driving to traverse different types of terrain. With a combat weight of 33,800 kg (includes 40 155mm projectiles), the Zuzana 2 can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h (on road, 20-30 km/h off-road), with the ability to engage targets up to 41 km away using extended-range projectiles, or greater than 50 km with VLAP improved speed ammunition.
*Images used for illustrative purposes only.
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