AirShow China 2018: New SH15 155mm 6x6 self-propelled howitzer.

Chinese Defense Company China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (NORINCO) unveils the SH15, a new 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer during AirShow China 2018, the International Aerospace and Aviation Exhibition that was held in Zhuhai, China.

Chinese-made SH15 155mm wheeled 6x6 self-propelled howitzer at AirShow China 2018, Zhuihai. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The SH15 uses a 6x6 Shaanxi truck chassis with an armored cabin at the front and a 155 mm gun-howitzer at the rear. According to NORINCO, this artillery system is based on the AH-2 155 mm/L52 howitzer, which is able to fire any standard 155 mm NATO ammunition, as well as Chinese-made ammunition developed by NORINCO.

The 155mm howitzer mounted at the rear of the SH15 uses a semi-automatic loading system. The 155 mm / 52 caliber bore is fitted with a double baffle muzzle brake and, when travelling, the ordnance is held in position by a clamp located to the immediate rear of the cab, which is operated by remote control. When the SH15 is deployed in firing position, two large spades are lowered at the rear to provide a more stable firing platform.

The SH15 has a maximum firing range of 20 km with standard ammunition and 53 km with a rocket-assisted projectile. The maximum rate of fire is 4-6 rounds per minute. On each side of the truck chassis, there are storage boxes to carry ammunition. Elevation and traverse is hydraulically operated. This SPH can be operated by a crew of five. According to some military sources, it weighs a maximum of 22 tons.