In a significant move to bolster its indigenous defense capabilities, the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) unveiled a groundbreaking 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzer at the World Defense Show 2024. This strategic launch positions SAMI to directly compete with European defense giants, challenging the dominance of the French CAESAR and the German RCH 155 with its own advanced artillery solution.
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SAMI unveils its new 155mm 8x8 self-propelled howitzer at World Defense Show 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
While the name of the new self-propelled howitzer remains under wraps, SAMI's representatives have disclosed that the vehicle is currently undergoing rigorous trials with the Saudi Armed Forces. This initiative is a collaborative effort between SAMI and the Saudi military, highlighting the nation's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities through domestic innovation.
The Saudi Army and the National Guard, both integral components of the Saudi Armed Forces, currently operate the French-manufactured CAESAR, a 155mm 6x6 self-propelled howitzer. Developed by the French company Nexter, now part of KNDS, the CAESAR models serving the Saudi forces are mounted on two different chassis: a 6x6 Sherpa truck for the army and a Unimog chassis for the National Guard.
SAMI's latest venture, the 8x8 155mm howitzer, represents a significant leap forward for the Saudi defense industry, aiming to rival European-made wheeled howitzers with a product entirely designed and developed within the Kingdom. Based on a Czech TATRA 8x8 truck chassis, the new howitzer features a crew armor cab at the front and a 155mm cannon at the rear, equipped with a semi-automatic loading system and storage for charge and rounds. Although specific details regarding ammunition capacity remain undisclosed, the vehicle promises to be a formidable addition to the Saudi arsenal.
The howitzer incorporates a sophisticated computerized fire control system, enabling precision targeting and firing operations both inside and outside the crew cab. Notably, the vehicle is armed with a variety of ammunition, including standard 155mm rounds, GPS-guided shells, and a locally produced version of the American M982 Excalibur—a precision-guided munition designed for close support scenarios and minimizing collateral damage in civilian proximity engagements.
SAMI's presentation at the World Defense Show 2024 not only showcased the new self-propelled howitzer but also demonstrated the breadth of the Saudi defense industry's capabilities in developing and manufacturing cutting-edge combat vehicles. This development marks a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia's pursuit of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, signaling a new era of competition in the global arms market.
The SAMI 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzer is able to fire a wide range of ammunition including GPS-guided shells. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
Defense News February 2024
