BAE Systems has developed a prototype self-propelled howitzer called the M109-52. It is equipped with a L52 155 mm cannon with a 52 caliber barrel, which is used on the German PzH 2000 howitzer. Other structural elements, such as the hull, turret and chassis, have not been externally modified.
BAE Systems claims that successful combat firings have already been conducted with the M109-52 prototype during training at Camp Ripley in Minnesota, which have proven the compatibility of the L52 cannon with the M109A7 platform.
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However, the company has not disclosed the characteristics of the M109-52 self-propelled howitzer in specific categories. Only general features have been provided.
The M109-52 is a low-risk, high-performance upgrade to the current 39 caliber cannon and provides the additional range required in large-scale combat operations, reads the reports. Trial firings are scheduled for 2024, which will highlight extended range across a variety of projectiles.
Dan Furber, director of Ground Vehicle Production for BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems business, said that the integrated system of the M109-52 is a viable solution for long-range precision fires modernization needs.
The concept of putting a L52 cannon from the PzH 2000 on the M109 is quite interesting. However, its practical implementation may face an objective lack of resources, at least the barrels from the same L52 cannon.
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