At AAD 2012 Africa Defence and Aerospace exhibition, the Chinese Company NORINCO is unveiling PLZ52, a new generation of 155mm 52 Cal. self-propelled gun howitzer mounted on armoured tracked chassis. The PLZ52 is developed based on the state-of-the-art artillery technologies of Chinese Army, along with the extensive experience and technical achievements accumulated in the well-proven PLZ45 155mm gun howitzer system, a famous flagship product of NORINCO that has been exported in large quantities. The PLZ45 is used by the Kuwaiti and Saudi Arabian army. This new generation PLZ52 SPGH features high features high engagement capabilities, highly automatic operation, a comprehensive fire control system and a high performance ammunition system. Its autonomous character allows for a consistent step towards networked, centralized command and control. PLZ52 can also be integrated into the C4ISR system seamlessly. It is undoubtedly one of the most advanced self-propelled gun-howitzers in the world.
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| Armament |
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The PLZ52 155mm SPGH adopts 52 Cal. barrel length and achieves a maximum firing range of 53km with ERFB-BB-RA projectiles. Its arbitrary angle automatic projectile loading system and modular propellant charge realize a maximum firing rate of 8 rounds per minute, a burst firing rate of 3 rounds per 15 seconds and multiple-round simultaneous-impact capability of 4 rounds, giving it fierce firepower to neutralize enemy targets. A 12.7mm machine gun is mounted on the commander’s cupola for the self-protection of the vehicle and as anti-aircraft weapon. Four smoke grenade dischargers are fitted to each side at the front of the turret. The PLZ52 has an automatic loading system with 30 rounds on-board ammunition. The 155 mm 52 caliber barrel is provided with a slotted muzzle brake and a fume extractor and, when in the travelling position, is held in place by a manually released travelling lock mounted on the glacis plate. The turret has full 360º turret traverse and elevation from -3° to +68°.
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| Design and protection |
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The hull and the turret of the PLZ 52 are very similar to the Chinese PLZ45 155mm 45 caliber self-propelled howitzer and are of all-welded steel armour construction that provides protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. The PLZ52 has a crew of four consisting of commander, layer, loader and a driver. The driver is at the front left of the chassis with the engine at his right. The driver has a single-piece hatch cover that opens to the rear and in top of this are three day periscopes. The turret is at the rear of the hull with the commander's cupola on the left top side and one hatch for the gunner at the right side. A panoramic sight is mounted at the front of the crew commander hatch. Two small doors in the turret rear and a larger door in the hull rear both open to the right for ammunition resupply.
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| Propulsion |
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The PLZ52 SPGH is motorized with a 1000hp engine and an automatic transmission box featuring excellent mobility and maneuverability. The PLZ 52 can reach maximum road speed of 65km/h with a maximum cruising range of 450 km. The torsion bar suspension either side consists of six dual rubber-tyred roadwheels with a distinct gap between the fifth and sixth roadwheels. The drive sprocket is at the front, idler at the rear and three track-return rollers. The upper part of the suspension is protected by armour plates.
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| Accessories |
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The PLZ52 SPGH adopts an advanced digital fire control system, and is also characterized by quick reaction and outstanding battlefield survivability. Its laser/fiber-optic gyro navigation system can guarantee autonomous engagement capability without a survey vehicle's support. The computerized information integration technology improves information sharing and simplifies operation. Smart projectiles, such as GS1 155mm smart projectiles and 155mm laser-homing projectiles enable the PLZ52 to strike accurately against various targets in the battlefield. Standard equipment of PLZ52 includes an auxiliary power unit, NBC system, explosion detection and suppression system and a fire suppression system.
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| Specifications |
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Armament
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One 155mm 52 caliber gun, one 12.7mm machine gun and 2x4 smoke grenade dischargers
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Country user
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China
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Company Designer
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NORINCO China North Industries Corp.
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Accessories
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NB protection system, firing control system, night vision.
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Crew
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4 soldiers
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Armor
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Protection against small arms and shell splinters.
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Weight
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43,000 kg
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Speed
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65 km/hr on road
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Range
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450 km
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Dimensions
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Lenght, 11,6 m; Width, 3.38 m; Height, 3.55 m
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