Elbit Systems from Israel Partners with Romania To Produce ATMOS 155mm Wheeled Howitzers.

Israeli company Elbit Systems Ltd. and Romanian firm CN ROMARM S.A., through their subsidiary S Uzina Automecanica Moreni S.A. (UAM), have entered into a cooperation agreement focused on artillery production, including the ATMOS 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer. This landmark agreement aims to establish a Romanian Artillery Center involving other local companies, aimed at bolstering Romania's industrial base, creating job opportunities, and laying a foundation for independent artillery production in the country.
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The ATMOS is a 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer designed and developed by the Israeli company Elbit System. (Picture source Elbit Systems)

Under this agreement, Israeli Company Elbit Systems will bring its expertise in the production of the 155mm ATMOS Advanced Mobile Howitzers, including transferring vital manufacturing knowledge to ROMARM and UAM companies based in Romania. The latter will take on a significant role as system integrators, handling over half of the total workshare. Additionally, Moreni is set to become a pivotal support and maintenance provider for these advanced howitzers.

The partnership is not just limited to Elbit Systems and ROMARM; there are plans to involve other Romanian companies in this center of excellence. These include ELMET International SRL, IOR Optics Company, Simultec SRL, and Systematic, each bringing specialized skills ranging from electronic cable manufacturing to tactical communications and C4I applications.

This initiative is expected to be a major boost for the Romanian economy, particularly in terms of employment. The increasing demand for 155mm Howitzers, both from the Romanian military and other NATO and EU nations, underlines the significance and potential success of this partnership. The establishment of the Romanian Artillery Center marks a strategic move in enhancing Romania's role in the global defense industry, fostering technological advancement, and contributing to regional stability.

The ATMOS Elbit System is based-truck wheeled self-propelled howitzer that represents a cutting-edge development in artillery technology. As a 155mm/52 caliber wheeled self-propelled howitzer, ATMOS is designed to offer unparalleled flexibility and firepower on the battlefield. Its main feature is the integration of a powerful artillery gun on a high-mobility truck chassis, enabling rapid deployment and relocation. This mobility is key in modern warfare, allowing forces to execute shoot-and-scoot tactics effectively. The ATMOS system boasts a high rate of fire, capable of firing up to 4-9 rounds per minute. Its impressive maximum firing range of approximately 41 kilometers (with extended-range ammunition) makes it a formidable asset in long-range engagements.

Additionally, the ATMOS howitzer is notable for its advanced fire control system and modular design, which allow for easy integration with various command and control systems. This integration enhances its accuracy and efficiency in targeting. The system's automation features significantly reduce the crew's workload, allowing for a smaller crew size compared to traditional towed artillery. The howitzer is also designed with operational flexibility in mind, capable of firing a wide range of ammunition types, including standard NATO 155mm ammunition and ERFB (Extended Range Full Bore) rounds. This versatility, combined with its strategic mobility and rapid deployment capability, makes the ATMOS a key asset for modern armies, enhancing their tactical and operational effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.

Defense News November 2023