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Type 19


19式装輪自走155mmりゅう弾砲


Overview


Type 19

JGSDF Type 19 self-propelled howitzer on the move.
Source: www.mod.go.jp - © Public domain

Origin
Japan
Type
Self-propelled howitzer
Entered service
2019
Status
In service
Development
2013 - 2016
Developer
Japan - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Japan - Japan Steel Works
Production
2018 - present
Producer
Japan - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Japan - Japan Steel Works
Unit cost
700 million Yen in 2019
Number produced
5 prototypes
7 production vehicles, more planned
Designations
19式装輪自走155mmりゅう弾砲
Notable users
Japan - JGSDF

Description


Introduction

The Type 19 is a wheeled self-propelled howitzer of Japanese origin. It was developed in the 2010's to replace the towed FH-70 in Japanese service. The Type 19 is to have a longer range, better suited for shoot and scoot operations and have a higher degree of network integration. The ordnance and associated loading systems are produced by Japan Steel Works. Integration with the modified truck chassis is carried out by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Layout

The Type 19 combines the 155mm L/52 howitzer as used on the tracked Type 99 with an 8x8 MAN HX tactical truck chassis. The crew operates the howitzer in the open. In the firing position a large platform is lowered at the rear using hydraulic jacks. It seems likely that most ammunition and some of the gun crew are carried on a separate tactical truck.

Firepower

The ordnance is a 52-caliber howitzer that fires NATO standard 155mm ammunition. This results in a longer range compared to the 39-caliber FH-70. Loading is seems to be assisted to reduce fatigue and increase rate of fire. Maximum range is 40 km with a Type 93 base bleed shell. An integrated fire control system should result in a fast response time and improved accuracy. Loading can be carried out at any angle. The Type 19 may have a multiple round simultaneous impact capability. There is no secondary armament.

Mobility

A MAN HX series 8x8 all terrain tactical truck serves as the basis for Type 19. This should provide equal or better performance than the FH-70, both on and off the road. Speed, range and engine power aren't public yet. Maximum road speed is estimated at about 80 km/h.

Protection

The Type 19 seems to be a soft skin vehicle. Although it is possible that the cab is protected against small arms fire. The gun crew is in the open when operating the howitzer. The main features to protect the crew are the standoff range of the howitzer and the improved shoot-and-scoot capabilities over the towed FH-70.

Users

The Type 19 is being acquired by the Japan Ground Self Defense Force. Currently a limited quantity has been ordered for evaluation and training. As per Japanese policy a lengthy low rate production is to be expected. The Type 19 is not offered for export.

Details


Type 19

Rear view of Type 19 wheeled self-propelled howitzer.
Source: www.mod.go.jp - © Public domain

Type 19

JGSDF Type 19 self-propelled howitzer in the firing position.
Source: www.mod.go.jp - © Public domain

Facts Type 19
General
Origin
Japan
Type
Self-propelled howitzer
Crew
5
Dimensions
Weight
About 25 t
Length
11.4 m (travel configuration)
Width
2.5 m
Height
3.4 m (travel configuration)
Main armament
Type
155mm 52-caliber howitzer with multi-slotted muzzle brake
Mount
Rear of vehicle, in the open
Rate of fire
6 rpm (estimate)
Range
40 km with Type 93 base bleed
Stabilizer
No
Chassis
Chassis type
8x8 truck chassis
Tire size
14.00 R20
Automotive
Engine
Diesel
Power output
440 hp (estimate)
Transmission
Automatic, 12 forward, 2 reverse
Fuel
1.500 L (estimate)
Mobility
Speed
80+ km/h (estimate)
Obstacle crossing
Gradient
60 %
Slope
40 %
Fording
0.8 m

Media


Related articles


155mm FH-70

The Type 19 was developed to replace the towed FH-70 in Japanese service.