Iran Develops New Milestone in Artillery Systems with RAAD-2M 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer.

Iran has developed a new milestone in its domestic military artillery vehicle production with its locally-made RAAD-2M, a tracked self-propelled howitzer equipped with a 155mm cannon. This armored artillery system highlights Iran's growing self-reliance in defense technology and is set to provide enhanced firepower, mobility, and battlefield survivability for its armed forces.
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Iran's latest generation of 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer RAAD-2M. (Picture source: Wikimedia)

The RAAD-2M is designed as a highly artillery mobile platform, capable of traversing diverse terrains while offering sustained, high-precision indirect fire support. Crewed by five personnel—commander, gunner, driver, and two ammunition loaders—the vehicle prioritizes operational efficiency and crew safety.

The RAAD-2M is based on a Soviet-made T-72 tracked chassis. The driver is located on the left side of the hull with the power pack on its right. The turret is mounted at the rear of the tracked chassis. The entire vehicle, including the hull and turret, is made of all-welded special alloy steel, protecting against the firing of small arms fire and artillery shells. Moreover, the RAAD-2M's multi-fuel engine offers a high power-to-weight ratio, ensuring both speed and stability across various environments.

One of the key features of the RAAD-2M is its automatic laying system, which accelerates the targeting process and improves firing accuracy. The howitzer is equipped with a direct-fire telescope, high-vision optics, and GPS system, making it capable of operating effectively as a standalone unit or in coordination with other military assets. Its automatic fire control system significantly enhances operational efficiency by automating much of the firing process. The vehicle also includes a range of modern safety and support systems, such as NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection, air conditioning, and automatic and manual fire extinguishing systems.

Weighing 36,000 kg, the RAAD-2M is designed to carry a substantial ammunition load while maintaining agility. It measures 9.05 m in length, 3.38 m in width, and stands 3.46 m tall up to the machine gun, giving it a low profile for increased protection. The vehicle is powered by a 700 hp diesel engine, offering a power-to-weight ratio of 19.4 hp/ton, which enables it to achieve a top speed of 65 km/h on highways and 30 km/h cross-country. Additionally, it can overcome vertical obstacles of up to 800 mm, cross trenches of 2400 mm, and ford water up to 1.2 m deep.

The RAAD-2M's 155mm gun can fire standard projectiles up to 30,000 meters, with a maximum range of 40,000 meters when using enhanced rocket-assisted projectiles. It features a gun length of 8.4 m, providing high firepower for long-range engagements. The system can fire at a rate of 4 rounds per minute, ensuring sustained fire support during operations. The RAAD-2M is also armed with an auxiliary 12.7mm machine gun mounted on the turret roof for self-defense and close-quarters combat scenarios.

With its layered armor protection, NBC suite, and modern night vision systems, the RAAD-2M offers high levels of crew survivability. The vehicle is designed to be resilient in the face of enemy fire and environmental threats, with additional protection coming from its automatic fire suppression and shock-absorbing suspension system.

The RAAD-2M brings several operational advantages to the battlefield. Its advanced suspension and automatic gun-laying system ensure stability during firing, while the automatic fire control system allows for efficient targeting. Additionally, the vehicle's high mobility, both on highways and across rough terrain, provides flexibility in combat situations. Crew safety is also prioritized with advanced NBC protection, ensuring survivability in environments involving chemical, biological, or radiological threats.

The development of the RAAD-2M is a significant step in Iran's ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces and reduce reliance on foreign technology. This self-propelled howitzer will significantly enhance Iran’s artillery capabilities, offering a versatile and powerful tool for conventional warfare and asymmetrical conflict scenarios. The RAAD-2M's ability to deliver long-range, precise firepower, mobility, and technological sophistication will make it an essential asset for the Iranian military.

In conclusion, the RAAD-2M showcases Iran’s growing proficiency in indigenous military manufacturing. As a domestically produced self-propelled howitzer, it offers the Iranian Army the firepower, mobility, and independence needed to meet modern battlefield challenges while reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.