PPZ10
Overview
PPZ10
PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell during a 2021 exercise.
Source: China Military -
© GNU Attribution Share Alike license
Some sources indicate the less plausible number 800 vehicles
Type 05A / PLZ05A (alternative designation)
Description
Introduction
The PPZ10 is a modern era self-propelled gun-mortar of Chinese origin. It was developed in the 2000's to complement mechanized units equipped with the ZBD04A mechanized infantry combat vehicle. As is the case with many modern Chinese combat vehicles the official name is difficult to determine. Alternate designations in various sources include the PLZ10 and Type 05A.
Design
PPZ10 is based on the hull and drivetrain of the ZBD04A mechanized infantry combat vehicle. A taller turret houses a 120mm smoothbore gun-mortar. This turret is practically similar to the one used on the PLL05 wheeled self-propelled gun-mortar. The rear compartment houses the ammunition.
Firepower
Main armament consists of a 120mm smoothbore gun-mortar. Photos clearly indicate that regular mortar shells can be fired at a high angle and in a direct fire mode. The maximum effective range is 8.5 km for 120mm mortar rounds, 9.5 km for a howitzer like projectile and 12.8 km for rocket assisted mortar shells. Maximum rate of fire is reportedly 6 to 10 rpm. It is believed that 30 shells and associated charges are carried. A 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine gun is mounted at a hatch on the turret roof for self-defense. In many photos in PLAGF service the QJC88 is not fitted, yet is believed to be standard equipment.
Protection
PPZ10 is based on the ZBD04A chassis without the applique armor. Compared to the wheeled PLL05 the chassis provides a similar level of protection. The PPZ10 is operated under full armor protection. There is an all around protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. There are two banks of three smoke grenade launchers on the turret and an NBC system is fitted.
Mobility
The tracked chassis provides the PPZ10 with the capability to keep up with the ZBD04A formations it is intended to support. A tracked chassis provides good all terrain mobility. A 6-cylinder supercharged water-cooled diesel engine is fitted. This allows for a maximum speed on roads of 75 km/h. PPZ10 likely retains the amphibious capability of the ZBD04A. It can cross calm water at a speed of 6 to 8 km/h and is propelled in the water by its tracks.
Users
The PPZ10 is in service only with the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army. Adoption seemed to be at a low rate initially. Since 2018 larger formations can be seen in press photos at the firing range and in the field. Thus far the PPZ10 does not seem to be offered for export sales.
Media
PPZ10
A row of PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortars seen during a 2020 exercise.
Source: China Military
Copyright: GNU Attribution Share Alike license
PPZ10
PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell during a 2021 exercise.
Source: China Military
Copyright: GNU Attribution Share Alike license
PPZ10
PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell during an exercise.
Source: China Military
Copyright: GNU Attribution Share Alike license
PPZ10
Several PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar vehicles lined up while being inducted in service.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PPZ10
Several PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar vehicles lined up while being inducted in service. Note that the 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine guns are fitted.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PPZ10
PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell during an exercise.
Source: China Military
Copyright: GNU Attribution Share Alike license
PPZ10
PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell during an exercise. Note the mortar shell emerging from the muzzle blast.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PPZ10
Rear view of a PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortar firing a 120mm shell. Note the mortar shell in flight.
Source: www.81.cn
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PPZ10
Two PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortars in firing position with ordnance at high elevation. Note the ammunition stowage visible trough the rear hatch.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PPZ10
Several PPZ10 tracked self-propelled gun/mortars in firing position with ordnance at high elevation.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Details
Related articles
ZBD04A
The PPZ10 is based on the ZBD04A tracked chassis and support formations with this vehicle.
PLL05
Wheeled counterpart / predecessor to the PPZ10. Self-propelled 120mm gun-mortar based on the WZ551 6x6 wheeled chassis.
2S31 Vena
The Russian 2S31 Vena has a similar design pattern and fulfils a similar role as the PPZ10.