Artillery Gun Module (AGM)155 mm self-propelled howitzer (Germany)
Channel: Main Battle Tank
Date: 19/01/2023

The Artillery Gun Module (AGM) 155 mm self-propelled howitzer was developed as a private venture to meet potential future requirement of the German Army. Prototype of the AGM was revealed in 2004. Overall it proved to be a successful design.

   The Artillery Gun Module is based on the technology of the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, which is in service with German Army. It provides the same performance of the PzH 2000, but is cheaper to build has reduced crew and significantly lighter weight. The AGM is air-transportable. It was developed as a supplement to the PzH 2000 where heavier weaponry is not available, recommendable or too expensive.

   The Artillery Gun Module uses the 155 mm/L52 gun. The AGM has a fully automatic loading system, which loads the projectiles and the charges. The main gun components are from the PzH 2000. It also retains features and performance parameters of the PzH 2000. The AGM has a rate of fire of 6-8 rounds per minute and is capable of multiple-round simultaneous-impact firing. If necessary the system can be loaded and fired manually. The AGM is compatible with all standard NATO munitions. Maximum range of fire is 30 km with standard rounds and 40 km with base bleed rounds. A total of 30 projectiles are and associated charged are carried. The AGM can also be adapted for a lighter gun, such as a shorter 155 mm/L39 or even lighter 105 mm gun.

   Artillery Gun Module is fitted with advanced fire control system. A muzzle reference system feeds information into the fire control system. It receives target data via radio or datalink. The AGM is fitted with Global Positioning System. It takes approximately 30 seconds to prepare to fire. Out of action time is also as short as 30 seconds. Once the last round is fired it allows the vehicle to briefly leave its firing position and avoid counter-battery fire.

   The artillery system is operated by a two men crew. A lifting system is installed at the front of the turret. It allows the crew to reload magazine from outside of the vehicle.

   Turret of the Artillery Gun Module is made of lightweight aluminum armor and provides protection against small arms, artillery shell splinters and against nuclear, biological or chemical warfare attacks.

   First prototype of the AGM used a modified tracked chassis of a surplus US M270 MLRS. It had a combat weight of 27 tons. It was powered by the Cummins VTA-903T diesel engine, developing 550 horsepower. Vehicle was fitted with auxiliary power unit, which powered all necessary systems when the main engine was shut down.

   The AGM module weights 12.5 tons and can be mounted on 6x6 or 8x8 trucks, tracked vehicles or main battle tanks. The intention was to integrate the AGM into available chassis for the customer country to provide modern and cost effective artillery system. The artillery module can be even used as a stationary stand-alone unit for defense of forward operating bases.

   A completely different programme led by shipbuilders was developed during the same timeframe. A MONARC naval modular artillery gun integrates the gun turret and autoloader from the PzH 2000 howitzer into the deck of a naval vessel.