PLZ05

   The PLZ05, also referred as the Type 05, is a recent Chinese development. It was developed as a successor to the Type 83 SPH. The PLZ05 is a further development of the PLZ45. The first prototype was completed in 2003 and it was revealed in 2005. The PLZ05 may enter service with the Chinese Army in the near future.

   The PLZ05 is armed with a 155-mm / L52 howitzer. This self-propelled howitzer evolved from the PLZ45 SPH design, intended for the export market, which was fitted with a 155-mm / L45 howitzer. The PLZ05 has a longer barrel, as well as longer range of fire. Turret of the PLZ05 was enlarged and resembled that of the Russian 2S19 Msta-S. Some sources claim, that the PLZ05 is fitted with an autoloader, which has been copied from the 2S19. It is worth mentioning, that the Chinese Army was unsatisfied with indigenous semi-automatic loader of the PLZ45.

   The PLZ05 is capable of firing a full range of Chinese 155-mm munitions, as well as precision guided projectiles. In the 1990s China obtained the Russian Krasnopol laser-guided projectile technology. Later it successfully developed it's own precision guided munitions. This projectile has a maximum range of 20 km.

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

   Armor of the PLZ05 protects against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems are fitted as standard.

   Vehicle uses a tracked chassis, which is very similar to that of the PLZ45. It is powered by a diesel engine. It is speculated that it is developing 520 hp. This self-propelled howitzer is supported by an associated ammunition resupply vehicle, which carries ammunition under armor on the battlefield. The resupply vehicle carries about 90 rounds. Automated delivery is 8 rounds per minute. This support vehicle is fitted with a crane, which is used for ammunition handling operations and can be also used to replace the powerpack.