PLZ-45 self-propelled artillery
The PLZ-45 is a 155mm / 45 calibre full-tracked self-propelled artillery system. Patterned on the original American M109, it has a similar design and appearance while incorporating a more powerful engine to improve mobility on a heavier chassis. It uses similar ordnance to the towed NORINCO 155mm WAC-021 system. The enclosed rotating turret may incorporate NBC protection and a fire suppression system. In 1997, the Kuwait Land Forces placed an order with China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) for a total of 27 PLZ-45 systems. This was apparently the first production order for the PLZ-45. NORINCO offers the PLZ-45 as part of a complete artillery package which includes a full-tracked ammunition support vehicle almost identical in concept to the US United Defense M992 Field Artillery Ammunition Support Vehicle (FAASV).
Specifications
Powerplant diesel - 525 hp Speed 34 mph Weight 32 tons Height 2.6 m Armament one 155mm main gun one 12.7mm machine gun Rate of Fire 4-5 rounds/min Range 39,000m = ERFB-BB ammunition
