The US Army has initiated a renewed effort to acquire advanced self-propelled howitzers, issuing a request for information aimed at gathering insights on available 155mm systems and their support capabilities. This move comes after a pause in previous efforts under the Army Transformation Initiative, highlighting a strategic pivot towards enhancing artillery capabilities.
The army’s request seeks contributions from industry players regarding mature 155mm self-propelled howitzer designs that can be integrated into soldier experimentation programs. The objective is to harness practical systems that inform future acquisition strategies and tactically benefit ground forces.
According to the request, thorough assessments have reaffirmed the critical role of 155mm self-propelled artillery systems in the army’s operational framework. The acquisition process may involve temporarily assigning selected systems to a designated “Transform in Contact” brigade for experimental purposes. This initiative will include logistical support from contractors and the utilization of US-supplied 155mm ammunition, with digital fire missions coordinated through established fire direction centers.
Areas of focus in the request include rearming capabilities, ammunition handling systems, domestic production capacities, and the integration of these systems with existing army fire control networks. Additionally, companies submitting proposals are required to share details about their supply chains, safety documentation, and expected delivery timelines for both the howitzers and their supporting vehicles.
This renewed interest in self-propelled howitzers follows the US Army’s earlier decision to pause the Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) program. The ERCA was intended to enhance the reach of the M109 Paladin by incorporating a 58-caliber gun tube, pushing its effective range beyond 70 kilometers (43 miles). However, technical challenges led to a reevaluation of the program under the ATI framework, despite some successful testing phases.
In its current search, the Army appears to be placing significant emphasis on well-established systems already employed by allied forces. A key example is Germany’s PzH 2000, renowned for its capabilities within NATO and its operational deployment in Ukraine.
While the US continues to deploy the M109A7 Paladin—an upgraded version of its enduring tracked howitzer—concerns persist regarding its operational range in comparison to newer European artillery designs, prompting the Army’s exploration of more advanced alternatives.
