Spain Considers Upgrading Artillery with Donar and Piranha 4 Systems.

In a significant move to modernize its artillery capabilities, the Spanish Ministry of Defence has announced its plans to replace its aging fleet of M109A5E howitzers with 145 new self-propelled guns. This strategic initiative involves the procurement of 109 tracked and 36 wheeled artillery systems, aiming to enhance Spain's artillery capabilities across various operational terrains and scenarios.
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The Donar, which incorporates KNDS's AGM (Artillery Gun Module) on an ASCOD chassis, provides a tracked artillery solution (Picture source: KNDS)

Santa Barbara Sistemas, a leading entity in Spain's defense industry, has offered two cutting-edge systems for consideration. The first is the Donar, which incorporates KNDS's AGM (Artillery Gun Module) on an ASCOD chassis, providing a tracked artillery solution.

The second is the Piranha 4 10x10, a wheeled vehicle also equipped with the same AGM module. These systems are designed to meet the stringent demands of modern warfare, offering improved mobility and firepower.

The Donar system integrates advanced artillery technology with the AGM on an ASCOD 2 chassis. Developed to offer a flexible and mobile artillery solution, the Donar combines a 155mm/L52 gun's firepower with the maneuverability of a tracked vehicle.

Although relatively new in the global artillery market, the system has undergone various testing phases to demonstrate its capabilities. It features an automatic loading system and a modular design, aimed at quick deployment and survivability on the battlefield.

Similarly, the Piranha 4 10x10 represents a modern approach to artillery support, using a wheeled platform for strategic and tactical mobility. While specific production and service entry dates are not widely publicized, this vehicle is part of the broader Piranha family known for their adaptability and usage by various military forces globally.

The Piranha 4 10x10 offers advanced ballistic protection, mine resistance, and the capability to be airlifted by standard military transport, making it an ideal choice for expeditionary forces.

This modernization program is driven by the strategic necessity to upgrade Spain’s artillery in response to contemporary combat challenges, underscored by recent global conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.

The focus on both tracked and wheeled vehicles ensures adaptability and robustness, catering to diverse military needs. This procurement not only reflects Spain's proactive stance on defense preparedness but also marks a significant step in its ongoing military modernization efforts. The new platforms are expected to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness and reliability of the Spanish army, ensuring readiness for future challenges.