PLZ45
Introduction
PLZ45
Kuwaiti PLZ45 self-propelled howitzers on parade in 2011.
Source: US DoD -
© Public domain
Saudi Arabia
Algeria
Description
Introduction
The PLZ45 is a tracked 155mm self-propelled howitzer of Chinese origin. The PLZ45 was developed as a replacement for the aging Type 83 howitzer. Eventually the Chinese armed forces settled on the PLZ05, which is a further development of the PLZ45.
Layout
The PLZ45 is based on a new tracked chassis. The engine and drive train are mounted at 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.
Firepower
The PLZ45 is fitted with a 45-caliber 155mm howitzer capable of firing NATO standard ammunition, although Chinese ammunition is supplied with it. A semi-automatic loader is fitted and holds 24 out of the 30 rounds that are carried in the vehicle. The maximum rate of fire is 4 to 5 rounds per minute, with sustained fire being 2 rounds a minute. Standard ERFB rounds can be fired up to 30km and base bleed variants up to 39km. For self defense a 12.7mm heavy machine gun is mounted on the turret roof.
Protection
The PLZ45 is operated under full armor protection. The steel armor gives protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. NBC and fire suppression systems are fitted. No smoke dischargers are fitted.
Mobility
With its tracked chassis the PLZ 45 has good cross country performance, although its average speed is somewhat limited. The PLZ45 is powered by a 525hp Deutz diesel engine and an auxiliary power unit provides power when the engine is not running.
Users
The PLZ45 is intended for export sales with the more capable PLZ05 being adopted by Chinese forces. Kuwait bought the entire PLZ45 artillery system with all associated vehicles and ammunition.
System composition
PLZ45
The PLZ45 is a tracked self-propelled howitzer. Only a single version of the howitzer exists. The PLZ45 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 L/45 howitzer connected to a semi-automatic loader and a 12.7mm heavy machinegun for self defense.
PCZ45
The PCZ45 is a ammunition resupply vehicle that accompanies the PLZ45. The PCZ45 is based on the same chassis, but instead of a turret a fixed superstructure is fitted.
Details
Media
PLZ45
PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer firing a 155mm artillery shell.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
TOS-1A and PLZ45
PLZ45 self-propelled howitzers and TOS-1A rocket artillery in use with Algeria.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PCZ45
PCZ45 ammunition resupply vehicle alongside a firing PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PLZ45
PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer firing a 155mm artillery shell.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PCZ45
PCZ45 ammunition resupply vehicle alongside PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PCZ45
PCZ45 ammunition resupply vehicle in Chinese livery as used for trails.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PCZ45
PCZ45 ammunition resupply vehicle alongside PLZ45 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
155mm PLL01
The PLZ45 uses the same 155mm L/45 ordnance as the towed PLL01, which is also known as WA-021 for export sales.
PLZ05
The PLZ45 was never adopted for Chinese service. Many of the design lessons have been incorporated in the PLZ05, a more capable system than the PLZ45.
Norinco QJC88
The 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine gun is mounted on the turret roof.