PCL181

Export: SH-15

Overview

PCL181

Chinese PCL181 self-propelled howitzer during the 2019 military parade.
Source: Unknown author - © Copyright lies with original owner

Origin

China

Type

Self-propelled howitzer

Entered service

2019 or 2020

Status

In service

Development

2010’s

Developer

China

Production

2018 - present

Producer

China

Number produced

Dozens shown by 2020

Designations

SH-15 (export model)

Notable users

China
Pakistan

Description

Introduction

The PCL181 is a modern self-propelled howitzer of Chinese origin. It was developed as more mobile replacement of older towed artillery pieces, most notably the 152mm Type 66 and 130mm Type 59-1. The export model is known as SH-15.

Design

The PCL181 is based on a Shaanxi 6x6 truck chassis with an armored cab. The 155mm howitzer is mountrdcat the rear and is operated in the open. In the firing position two large hydraulic jacks are lowered. Shells and charges are stored on the sides of the truck. A semi-automatic loading mechanism feeds the shell into the breech.

Firepower

The PCL181 has a 155mm 52-caliber howitzer that fires a Chinese range of NATO standard shells. The semi-automatic loader allows for a rate of fire of 4 to 6 rpm. With rocket assisted ammunition a range of 53 km can be achieved.

Mobility

The 6x6 chassis allows for good mobility on road and reasonable performance in the field. A major advanrage over the towed howitzers it replaces is that it is much faster into and out of action. This allows for shoot and scoot tactics to avoid counter battery fire. The maximum weight of 25 t allows for good strategic mobility. Two can be loaded onto an Y-20 transport aircraft.

Protection

The armored cab protects against small arms fire and shell splinters. Three crew members load the howitzer in the open while the driver and commander remain in the cab.

Users

The PCL181 has been adopted by the PLA and is likely to be acquired in quatity. The PCL181 was first shown in the 2019 parade and was used during exercises in 2020. Prototypes were tested and shown for export in 2017 and 2018. Pakistan has order over 200 SH-15, the export version of the PCL181.