PLZ05
Overview
PLZ05
A number of PLZ05 in the field during an excersize.
Source: www.ausairpower.net -
© copyright lies with original owner
2005 (state trials)
Description
Introduction
The PLZ05 is a modern tracked 155mm self-propelled howitzer of Chinese origin. It is an indigenous development using lessons learned from the PLZ45 and Russian 2S19. The earlier PLZ45 was developed for export and was found not yet capable enough for Chinese service. Development took place in the early 2000's and certification took place in 2005 and 2006. By 2013 at least 16 regimens of 18 guns were in Chinese service.
Layout
The PLZ05 is based on a modified tracked PLZ45 chassis. The drive train is mounted in the front and the fully enclosed turret is fitted at the rear. The crew of five consists of a commander, driver, gunner and two loaders. The turret houses a fully automated loading system which is derived from the Russian 2S19 Msta. For export several variants of the PLZ05 have been developed.
Firepower
The PLZ05 is fitted with longer 155mm L/52 howitzer than the PLZ45. As a result longer ranges of over 50km can be achieved with special types of ammunition. Unlike the PLZ45 the PLZ05 is not fitted with a semi-automatic loader. A fully automatic loader similar to the Russian 2S19 is fitted. This doubles the maximum rate of fire to 8 to 10 rounds per minute. For self defense a 12.7mm QJC88 machine gun is mounted on the turret roof.
Protection
The PLZ05 is operated under full armor protection. The steel armor gives protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. Over the frontal arc the armor resists 14.5mm heavy machine gun fire. NBC and fire suppression systems are fitted. A total of 8 smoke dischargers are fitted.
Mobility
The PLZ05 is based on a slightly modified chassis of the PLZ45. The spacing between the road wheels is somewhat different but the rest is similar. An 8V150 diesel engine is fitted and provides up to 800 hp. This allows for a road speed of up to 55 km/h. An auxiliary power unit provides power when the engine is not running.
Users
The PLZ05 is only used by the Chinese armed forces and is to become the standard heavy self-propelled howitzer in Chinese service. The PLZ05 is only used by armored units. The PLZ05 is expected to remain in production and service for many years.
Variants
PLZ05
Several PLZ05 during a parade.
Source: www.china-defense-mashup.com -
© copyright lies with original owner
Variants of the PLZ05
The PLZ05 is a tracked self-propelled howitzer. Only a single version of the howitzer was produced. A PLZ05A upgrade has been reported. Variants such as a ammunition resupply vehicle have been developed as well.
The PLZ05 has a conventional layout with the driver and engine in the front of the hull and the turret with the other four crew members in the rear of the hull. The armament consists of a 155mm howitzer that is over 50 calibers long and is connected to a fully automatic loader. A 12.7mm heavy machinegun is fitted for self defense.
Details
Media
PLZ05
Forward view of PLZ05 on the move.
Source: www.china-defense-mashup.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLZ05
A PLZ05 firing its 155mm L/52 howitzer at maximum elevation.
Source: Shinecommerce @ www.kr.blog.yahoo.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLZ05
Side view of PLZ05 during a parade.
Source: www.fyjs.cn
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLZ05
Rear view of PLZ05 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: www.china-defense-mashup.com
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PCZ05
Supposedly the PCZ05 ammunition resupply vehicle. Could also be the PCZ45 resupply vehicles since it uses the PLZ45 chassis.
Source: www.fyjs.cn
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
PGZ09
The PGZ09 self-propelled anti-aircraft gun uses the same type of chassis as used on the PLZ05 self-propelled howitzer.
PLZ83
The PLZ05 supplements the older PLZ83 in Chinese service. The PLZ05 is produced in larger quantity than the PLZ83.
Norinco QJC88
For self-defense a 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine gun is mounted on the turret roof.
PLZ45
The PLZ05 was developed as a more capable system than the PLZ45, which was produced for export.