Thailand in the market for new lightweight 155mm field howitzer

An M777 155mm ultra lightweight howitzer used by the US Marines. Photo c/o Wikipedia.

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) released a requirement for a new lightweight 155mm howitzer to enhance the firepower of rapid deployment and air mobile forces.

The requirement is for it to weight less than 8,000 kilograms, can be moved by aircraft without the need for disassembly, capable of firing rounds up to 30 kilometers away, the barrel can be elevated up to 45 degrees to less than 0 degree, and has a rate of fire of 3 rounds per minute or more.

The requirement also calls for the new field howitzer to be compatible with the RTA’s existing communications and fire control systems, and can be fired manually or through an automated system supported by an electric generator and inverter for power supply.

The model to be purchased should be a proven one, in service with the origin’s armed forces and other foreign armed forces, and is supportable for at least 20 years.

It is believed that the RTA is eyeing the BAE Systems M777 ultra-lightweight howitzer, which is currently in service with its ally the US Army and US Marine Corps, as well as other countries including Australia, Canada, India, and Saudi Arabia.

Thailand was introduced to the M777 howitzer during previous Cobra Gold exercises with the US, wherein it was deployed quickly and can be carried by helicopters. The RTA has a large fleet of helicopters including the CH-47 Chinook and Mi-17 Hip that could carry lightweight howitzers into the combat area.


[1] AAG_Th Thai Defense Page

Thailand in the market for new lightweight 155mm field howitzer Thailand in the market for new lightweight 155mm field howitzer Reviewed by Asia Pacific Defense Journal on July 10, 2019 Rating: 5

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