PLL05

   The PLL05, also referred as the Type 05, self-propelled mortar system is a recent Chinese development. It was introduced in 2001. This vehicle was designed for export market, however no orders were placed. In 2008 a modified variant with redesigned turret was accepted to service with the Chinese Army. This artillery system is used to support mechanized infantry troops.

   It is worth mentioning that the gun-mortar system concept was first developed by the Soviet Union on the 2S9 Nona-S tracked mortar system, intended for the air assault divisions. It was followed by the 2S23 Nona-SVK based on the BTR-80 wheeled chassis. In 1997 China planned to acquire about 100 units of the Russian 2S23 Nona-SVK mortar system, but no deliveries were made. Nevertheless China bought three 2S9 Nona-S mortar systems from Ukraine in 2000. The PLL05 is very similar to the Nona-SVK, while turret design also resembles Russian mortar system.

   The PLL05 is armed with a 120-mm breach loaded gun/mortar, fitted with a semi-automatic loader. This weapon combines features of both mortar and howitzer. Vehicle fires rifled rounds and any 120-mm mortar mines. The PLL05 is capable of direct and indirect firing. Maximum range of fire is 8.8 km with rounds, 12.8 km with rocket assisted rounds and 7.1 km with mortar mines. The PLL05 can also engage armored vehicles with the HE-AT rounds. This mortar system is also compatible with Russian KM-8 Gran precision guided mortar rounds. It has a range of 9 km. The PLL05 has traverse range of 360 degrees in contrast to 70 degrees of the Nona-SVK. Rate of fire depends on the projectile type and varies between 4 and 10 rounds per minute.

   Secondary armament consists of 12.7-mm machine gun, mounted on top of the roof.

   Armor of this mortar system provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. The PLL05 is fitted with automatic fire suppression and NBC protection systems.

   Vehicle has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, loader and driver.

   The PLL05 uses 6x6 chassis of the Type 92 armored personnel carrier. Vehicle is powered by the Deutz BF8L413F turbocharged diesel engine, developing 320 hp. The PLL05 is fully amphibious. On water it is powered by two waterjets. Vehicle can be airlifted by the Y-8 or other similar size military transport aircraft.

  Some sources claim, that tracked variant of this artillery system is currently under development.