The PLZ-45 is a Chinese developed self-propelled artillery howitzer, based on technology acquired from Poland in the 1980’s. The main cannon is a 155mm muzzle calibre and Length 45 calibre (larger than the US M109 series). It uses an electrically controlled semi automatic loading system with a hydraulic ram allowing the 5 man crew to load the charge whilst at any angle. The cannon has an elevation of +72 to -3 degrees. The turret can traverse a full 360 degrees.
30 rounds of munitions are carried in the turret which can be from a number of Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) ammunition the vehicle is capable of firing:
High Explosive (ERFB/HE)
Base Bleed High Explosive (ERFB-BB/HE)
ERFB-BB/RA
ERFB/WP
ERFB/Illuminating
ERFB/Smoke and ERFB-BB/Cargo.
The vehicle has a laser-guided projectile based on the Russian Krasnopol, designed to destroy Main Battle Tanks and heavy emplacements with an operational range of 3 to 20km.
The FCS includes an automatic laying system, optical sighting system, gun orientation and navigation system, giving the vehicle a top range of 39km.
For close encounters the vehicle has a roof-mounted W-85 12.7mm (0.50cal) anti-aircraft MG and two sets of four-barrel smoke grenade launchers on the turret's side.
The driver sits front left with the 520hp turbocharged diesel engine which provides for a top road speed of 50 km/h and a 450km operational range, to his right.
Other equipment includes, auxiliary powerpack for powering electrical systems, NBC protection, fire detection & suppression, muzzle velocity measurement system and gun display unit. The vehicle is rated to give protection against 7.62mm rounds and shrapnel from airburst artillery.
The vehicle is sold at Battalion strength which includes a number of support vehicles:
PLZ45 - 18 (divided among 3 batteries).
PCZ45 - 6 ammunition support vehicles.
BRV - 3 battery reconnaissance vehicles (Type 85 APC like vehicles).
W653A - Armoured Recovery Vehicle.
704-1 - artillery locating and fire correction radar.
702-D - meteorological radar.
Fire support maintenance vehicles.
Battery command post.
Operators:
Kuwaiti Army -
128 (54 was exported in 1997, further 74 in 2001).
Saudi Arabian Army -
54 (ordered in 2007).
Bangladesh Army -
Deliveries due to be completed in 2011, PLZ-45 “battalions” ordered meaning at least 40+ PLZ45’s.
Chinese People's Liberation Army Ground Force -
It was rumoured that the PLA were to purchase the vehicle to replace the 152 mm Type 83 self-propelled howitzer currently in service. However this is incorrect with the development of the PLZ05.