Technology: Turkish Arpan 155 8x8 howitzer conducts live firing test competing with modern artillery systems.

According to information published by SavunmaSanayiST.com on July 12, 2025, and following a video released by the Turkish company ASFAT, the newly developed Arpan 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer has successfully completed a series of firing qualification tests, demonstrating performance beyond initial expectations. Developed through a joint initiative by ASFAT, ASELSAN, MKE, and BMC, the Arpan 155 achieved an unprecedented firing rate of 8 rounds per minute, surpassing the 6-round-per-minute benchmark defined in the program's qualification phase.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Turkish Arpan 155 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzer during live firing test demonstrating high rate of fire and precision. (Picture source: ASFAT)

The Turkish-made Arpan 155 is built on an 8x8 tactical wheeled chassis and integrates a 155mm/52 caliber cannon compliant with the Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding, ensuring compatibility with NATO-standard ammunition. The system features both manual and semi-automatic loading capabilities and delivers a high degree of responsiveness in the field. Its elevation range extends from approximately -0.20° to +68.04°, with a horizontal traverse of ±17°, enabling accurate indirect and direct fire across diverse terrains. The maximum firing range reaches up to 40 km with MOD 274 rounds, 30 km with M549A1 high-explosive ammunition, and 18 km with M107 projectiles.

Weighing between 32 and 38 tons depending on configuration, the Arpan 155 measures 13 meters in length, 3.24 meters in width, and 3.46 meters in height. It is powered by a 447 kW (600 hp) engine producing 2508 Nm of torque, coupled to a fully automatic 7-speed transmission. The vehicle reaches road speeds of up to 80 km/h, with a range of 600 km and an off-road speed of 50 km/h. It offers excellent battlefield mobility, with a fording depth of 1 meter, trench crossing of 1.5 meters, and a 31 percent gradeability. Its robust design includes a central tire inflation system and high-durability 14.00 R 20 and 10 x 20 tires.

Crew survivability and platform resilience are supported by STANAG 4569-compliant ballistic protection for the cabin, with optional enhancements for superstructure protection and mine resistance. The integrated fire control suite includes a ballistic computer fully compatible with modern C4I systems, muzzle velocity radar, thermal imaging for direct fire, and an inertial navigation system for targeting and mobility accuracy. The system can engage targets within 30 seconds of deployment and requires only 3 to 5 crew members to operate efficiently.

Additional mission-critical features include a secondary weapon station with options for automatic or manual operation of 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns, smoke dischargers, electronic countermeasures, a self-recovery winch, run-flat tires, and an automatic fire suppression system for both the engine and crew compartments. The vehicle's superstructure can carry up to 24 complete rounds, managed by a computerized monitoring and control system for improved logistics and firing efficiency.

With the successful development of the Arpan 155, Türkiye is entering a new era in modern artillery systems, elevating its position from a regional defense producer to a global competitor in the high-mobility, precision fire support sector. The Arpan 155 is a strategic leap forward in the Turkish defense industry’s long-term goal of producing advanced indigenous systems for both domestic and export markets. As wheeled self-propelled artillery becomes increasingly favored for its rapid deployment, lower logistical footprint, and high mobility, Türkiye is now fielding a system that directly rivals Western counterparts. The Arpan 155 is poised to compete on equal footing with combat-proven systems such as the French CAESAR, which is widely deployed in NATO operations; the Israeli ATMOS, known for its modularity and long-range precision; the German RCH 155, which emphasizes automation and network-centric warfare; and the Serbian NORA B-52, valued for its cost-effectiveness and rugged performance.

What distinguishes the Turkish system is its integration of national defense technologies across firepower, mobility, digital connectivity, and survivability. ASFAT’s cooperation with ASELSAN, MKE, and BMC reflects a maturing ecosystem of Turkish defense companies capable of delivering complex platforms through collaborative innovation. By combining a NATO-standard 155mm gun with modern electronics, network integration, and battlefield flexibility, the Arpan 155 is not only tailored for the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces but is also highly attractive for international partners seeking a new-generation howitzer that balances capability, cost, and operational adaptability. With interest expected from countries seeking non-Western, yet interoperable artillery systems, Türkiye now firmly positions itself among the global leaders in mobile artillery technology.