PLZ45

   The PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer was developed by NORINCO in the early 90s specially for the export market. The only export operator of this artillery system is Kuwait. The PLZ45 was selected by the Kuwait Army in 1997. This SPH may have also entered service with the Chinese Army.

   The PLZ45 is armed with a 155-mm / L45 howitzer, which was developed from the Type 89 (PLL01) 155-mm towed howitzer. It is worth mentioning that China obtained the 155-mm/ L45 howitzer technology from Austria in 1980s. The PLZ45 has a semi-automatic loader. It enables projectile loading at any angle of elevation. The charge is being loaded manually. The PLZ45 fires HE, HE-FRAG, smoke, illumination and cargo rounds. It is also capable of firing precision guided munitions. China obtained the Russian Krasnopol laser-guided projectile technology in the 1990s and successfully developed it's own precision guided projectiles. These projectiles have a maximum range of 20 km.

   This artillery system has a high degree of operation autonomy and quick reaction time. The fire control system consists of automatic laying system, and GPS-based gun orientation and navigation systems.

   Secondary armament consists of a roof-mounted 12.7-mm machine gun, which is operated by the vehicle commander.

   Vehicle has a welded hull and turret. Armor of the PLZ45 protects against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems.

   The PLZ45 has a crew of 5, including commander, gunner, two loaders and driver.

   The PLZ45 uses a newly developed tracked chassis, which offers better performance, than the Type 321 used by most older Chinese artillery systems. Vehicle is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine, developing 525 hp. There is also an auxiliary power unit, which powers all systems, when vehicle is stationary.

   An ammunition resupply vehicle delivers ammunition under armor on the battlefield. It is based on the PLZ45 chassis. It carries a total of 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.

   A battery of 6 PLZ45 artillery systems is supported by 6 PCZ45 ammunition resupply vehicles, command post vehicle and 3 forward observation vehicles, artillery locating and fire correction radar, meteorological radar and maintenance vehicle.

Variants

   PLZ05, 155-mm self-propelled howitzer, fitted with larger turret and longer barrel. The PLZ05 has new automatic loading system.