Slovakia unveils modernized EVA M2 6x6 self-propelled howitzer after successful live firing tests.

On August 22, 2024, the Slovak company KONŠTRUKTA-Defence announced that its modernized EVA M2 6x6 155mm self-propelled howitzer recently underwent its first series of live firing tests, focusing on evaluating the platform's strength and stability. These tests are crucial for ensuring the system's reliability under operational conditions. In addition to the shooting trials, the EVA M2 6×6 also successfully completed non-shooting tests that assessed its performance in vertical grading, trench crossing, and climbing scenarios, demonstrating its capability across various terrains.
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In addition to the shooting trials, the EVA M2 6×6 also successfully completed non-shooting tests that assessed its performance in vertical grading, trench crossing, and climbing scenarios, demonstrating its capability across various terrains. (Picture source: KONŠTRUKTA-Defence)

Previously known under the name BIA, the EVA M2 6×6 is an advanced version of the EVA 155mm self-propelled howitzer, featuring an automatic ammunition loading mechanism. The earlier model was designed to deliver firepower through both direct and indirect aiming and incorporates assemblies and design solutions tested in Slovakia and other locations. The system is based on the 155mm 52 caliber SpGH, which has undergone extensive testing and tender trials.

The EVA is noted for its mobility, being a lighter version of the Zuzana 2 howitzer, and its ability to protect its crew from infantry weapons. It features rapid preparation and high accuracy of fire, along with the capacity for multiple round simultaneous impact (MRSI) fire. The crew operates from an air-conditioned, lightly armored cabin that offers protection against nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) threats, small arms fire, and ammunition fragments.

The system includes a weapon superstructure, platform, and on-board control system, with an automatic loading mechanism capable of handling 12 projectiles and 12 charges. This allows the system to fire five rounds in the first minute and nine rounds in two minutes, all controlled by the commander from within the cabin.

The earlier EVA model was designed to deliver firepower through both direct and indirect aiming and incorporates assemblies and design solutions tested in Slovakia and other locations. (Picture source: KONŠTRUKTA-Defence)

The EVA uses a chassis that can be configured as either an 8×8 or 6×6, based on the TATRA concept. This chassis includes an armored cabin and a central tire inflation/deflation system, enabling it to adapt to different battlefield conditions. The system's automation includes mechanisms for sensing and adjusting the position of the barrel and ammunition conveyors, with a fire control system (FCS) software designed for the central management of technical resources and activity monitoring, including topographic, ballistic, and technical calculations.

The EVA measures 11.5 m in length, 2.55 m in width, and 3.28 m in height at 0° elevation. It has a maximum combat weight of 26,500 kg for the 8×8 configuration and can reach speeds of 90 km/h on roads and 30 km/h off-road. The weapon features a 155mm caliber barrel with a length of 52 calibers, an elevation range of -3.5° to +75°, and a traverse of ±60°. The system's maximum range of fire is 41 km with ERFB-BB shells and over 50 km with VLAP ammunition.

The EVA's maximum range of fire is 41 km with ERFB-BB shells and over 50 km with VLAP ammunition. (Picture source: KONŠTRUKTA-Defence)