Krab

   The Krab (crab) self-propelled howitzer, developed by BAE Systems Land Systems, won international competition to meet future self-propelled artillery systems requirement for the Polish Army. Polish requirement is for 80 howitzers of this type. The first order was expected in 2008. Also Indian Army expressed interest in obtaining these systems. However Polish MoD haltet it's order due to a possible bribery case. Only two prototypes of this artillery system were built to date.

   Turret of the Krab is almost identical to that installed on the AS90 Braveheart. This turret will be license produced in Poland. It is fitted with 155-mm / L52 howitzer, which is compatible with all standard NATO 155-mm ammunition. The Krab has an automatic projectile loading system and modular charge system. Maximum range of fire is 30 km with standard HE-FRAG projectile and 40 km with rocket assisted. A total of 60 rounds are carried.

   Secondary armament consists of a roof-mounted 12.7-mm machine gun.

   The Krab is fitted with polish fire control system, intercom and radios. Vehicle is completed with Danish muzzle reference system, which tracks outgoing projectiles and adjusts the next shot.

   This self-propelled artillery system has all-welded steel construction. Armor o provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. It is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression system.

   The Krab uses modified T-72 man battle tank chassis. It is powered by S-12U diesel engine, developing 850 horsepower. Vehicle is fitted with a self-entrenching blade.

   A single Krab battery consists of six Krab self-propelled howitzers, two ammunition resupply vehicles based on the Star 1466 6x6 trucks, Waran maintenance vehicle and Azalia artillery C3I vehicle.