BAE Systems has successfully fired 155 millimeter projectiles from a M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer modified with the Rheinmetall L52 155mm, 52-caliber cannon.
The M109-52 is a significant, low-risk, high-performance upgrade to the current 39-caliber cannon and provides the additional range required in large-scale combat operations.
The test, conducted at Camp Ripley, Minnesota, proved the compatibility of the L52 cannon with the M109A7 platform during the live fire exercise.
BAE Systems plans to conduct additional testing in 2024, which will highlight extended range across a variety of projectiles.
“We’ve demonstrated that the integrated system of the M109-52 is a viable solution for long-range precision fires modernization needs,” said Dan Furber, Director of Ground Vehicle Production for BAE Systems’ Combat Mission Systems business. “Integrating these two highly capable and proven artillery systems provides stable designs and predictable performance.”
According to BAE Systems, the ability to integrate the proven M109 with proven cannon platforms like the L52 will quickly deliver expanded interoperability on day one with battlefield partners. The L52 artillery cannon is used by nine NATO and allied partner nations’ tactical artillery forces.
