NORINCO PCL-181

History

For many of the world's leading military powers, the 155mm gun is the most prominent projectile/ballistic field artillery, whether towed or self-propelled. This has not been forgotten by the modern Chinese military, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), which in 2020 introduced its newest member in the "PCL-181".

The PCL-181 is a Self-Propelled Artillery (SPA) with a trainable 155mm barrel mounted on the rear of a 6x6 wheeled military truck. Modern doctrine dictates that such vehicles must be able to deploy, fire and move quickly before the enemy can find their source

The 25-ton PCL-181 was unveiled to the public at a military parade in October 2019 and entered service in 2020, with approximately 18 to 36 systems already in service. The main force operating this type is (so far) tied to Eastern Theater Command.

The system is in service with the People's Liberation Army to replace a pair of smaller/mixed caliber weapon systems - namely the "PL-66" 152mm (Soviet D-20) and "59-1" 130mm (Soviet M-46) towed guns - The authorities cited lighter weight, tactical flexibility and lower acquisition/operating costs of the new units as key qualities of the move.

Practicality is at the heart of the design, and operators can set up their Waffentrager in just three minutes - including firing up to six rounds. A computerized automatic fire control system (FCS) allows the crew to fire accurately and quickly, while the vehicle's wheels also allow for on- and off-road travel without changing the chassis. Additionally, the PCL-181 is a much lighter battlefield weapon system than other similar designs, and it can cross existing bridges across the country, be transported relatively easily on railcars, or be airborne via the Shaanxi Y-9-class tactical transport.

The Y-9's cargo bay can hold a next unit).

The PCL-181 will undoubtedly feature prominently in future PLA exercises, providing a powerful method of maneuver for any military operation.

Specification

Basics

Year of Service

2020

Origins

China

Crew

5

Production

36

Manufacturer

China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO) China

Carrier

China

ROLLING

Fire Support/Attack/Breakthrough

Support allied forces with direct/indirect fire, attacking forward positions and/or breaking through fortified areas of the battlefield.

Dimensions and Weights

Weights

50,001 lbs

22,680 kg

Tonnage

25.0 tons

Power and Performance

Engine:

1 x diesel engine with traditional 6x6 wheel arrangement.

Weapons

1 x 155mm main barrel.

AMMOTION

Depends on the ammo carrier.

VARIANTS

PCL-181 - Name of the base series.