Türkiye introduces Gürhan hybrid 155mm self-propelled howitzer for export market.

At the SAHA 2024 exhibition, Turkish company Makina ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) presented its new Gürhan 155 mm self-propelled howitzer (SPH), previously referred to as E-Firtina. This new version was developed to address the export limitations faced by the T-155 Firtina howitzers in the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) inventory due to engine and transmission embargoes. To overcome these restrictions, MKE integrated a hybrid powerpack into the Firtina and has now completed firing tests for the Gürhan, which features a combination of a diesel engine and electric motor, supported by advanced domestic software and systems.
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The Gürhan’s hybrid system incorporates an electric engine powered by batteries that can be charged either by a diesel generator or independently in four hours. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Gürhan’s hybrid system incorporates an electric engine powered by batteries that can be charged either by a diesel generator or independently in four hours. The electric engine provides 1,300 horsepower, compared to the 1,000 horsepower generated by the diesel engine. This hybrid propulsion setup is similar to diesel-electric systems used in submarines, where the diesel engine functions as a generator for the electric drive. This configuration allows the Gürhan to achieve operational flexibility and improves overall system performance, while maintaining the same key specifications as the baseline Firtina.

In July 2024, the Gürhan underwent firing tests between July 23 and July 25 in Konya Karapınar, including high-pressure and maximum-range scenarios. These tests followed the completion of design verification and confirmed the operational readiness of the system. This development allows the Gürhan to overcome the export limitations previously caused by dependence on foreign engine and transmission components, making the platform ready for international sales.

The hybrid propulsion system offers advantages in fuel efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and extended operational life. It also provides an improved power-to-weight ratio of 28 hp/ton, compared to the diesel system’s 21 hp/ton, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 30 km/h in six seconds—one second faster than the conventional version. The vehicle weighs 48.4 tons, slightly heavier than the diesel-powered Firtina’s 47 tons. In terms of range, the hybrid system extends the operational distance to 500 km, significantly more than the diesel variant’s 226 km, and the maximum speed of the Gürhan is 60 km/h.

The Gürhan howitzer is capable of firing precision-guided munitions equipped with Roketsan's inertial guidance kit (MDK), featuring brake-based correction and a multi-mode fuse, which was tested from the platform earlier in 2024. (Picture source: MKE)

The Gürhan’s hybrid system is also designed to address operational challenges by reducing logistical requirements, lowering noise levels, and decreasing its thermal signature, making it less likely to be targeted by heat-seeking weapons. Furthermore, the hybrid system enables easier maintenance, with longer intervals between services and shorter times required for engine and transmission replacements. The batteries have a capacity of 357.12 kWh, and the diesel generator has a fuel tank capacity of 250 liters.

In terms of fire control capabilities, the Gürhan retains key features from the Firtina, including the updated fire control system and a mast-mounted remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), which also functions as an optic. This system was first introduced with the Firtina-NG variant and has now been integrated into the Gürhan. Additionally, the howitzer is capable of firing precision-guided munitions equipped with Roketsan's inertial guidance kit (MDK), featuring brake-based correction and a multi-mode fuse, which was tested from the platform earlier in 2024.

The transition from diesel to hybrid propulsion was also facilitated by MKE’s own resources, with no external dependencies. The Gürhan now offers a platform with reduced operational costs and enhanced performance. It has been designed to ensure sustainability, reduce logistical challenges, and provide ease of use. The system also incorporates a range of features that improve standardization and safety while contributing to battlefield deterrence. Additionally, it offers an updated self-propelled howitzer platform with extended operational capabilities and reduced reliance on foreign components.

The Gürhan, previously referred to as E-Firtina, was developed to address the export limitations faced by the T-155 Firtina howitzers due to engine and transmission embargoes. (Picture source: MKE)