British multinational arms, security and aerospace company BAE Systems fired 155-millimeter shells from a self-propelled howitzer modified with a 155-mm Rheinmetall L52, 52-caliber cannon, according to European Defence Review.
The M109-52 is an improved version of the current 39-calibre gun, with the extended range required in large-scale combat operations. Dan Furber, director of Ground Vehicle Production for BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems business, stated:
We’ve demonstrated that the integrated system of the M109-52 is a viable solution for long-range precision fires modernisation needs. Integrating these two highly capable and proven artillery systems provides stable designs and predictable performance.
The tests were conducted at Camp Ripley, Minnesota. Their success demonstrated the compatibility of the L52 gun with the M109A7 platform. The L52 artillery gun operates in nine tactical artillery forces of NATO and partner countries.
BAE Systems plans to conduct further tests in 2024 to verify the range of different projectiles.
