PLA upgrades its heavy 155mm SPH inventory
A PLZ-05B carried on a civilian tractor-trailer unit in China. (Photo: Chinese internet)
The PLZ-05 155mm SPH in Chinese army service has received a makeover.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has been fielding a plethora of self-propelled artillery types to units throughout China. Now its heaviest 155mm tracked SPH, the PLZ-05, has undergone modifications as part of an extensive upgrade.
With photos of green-painted SPHs on transporters appearing on the Chinese internet, it is possible that this modernised PLZ-05B is now ready for issue to PLA artillery units.
The chief visual difference is a completely new chassis that has seven road wheels per side compared to six on the existing PLZ-05/05A. In fact, this is the first modern Chinese AFV to utilise seven road
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward]()
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.
-
![Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows]()
Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows
The procurement and planned procurement of articulated tracked all-terrain vehicles is being driven by a need to replace older platforms and an acknowledgement of a capability gap for Arctic regions.
-
![Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier]()
Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier
A move, launched in May, could lead to a second supplier for the US Marines Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle requirement. Meanwhile, Wisconsin elected representatives have been pushing for necessary funding to be included in the FY27 budget.
-
![Canada reveals first requirements for future long-range air-to-air missile]()
Canada reveals first requirements for future long-range air-to-air missile
Exclusive: Ottawa says its future NORAD interceptor must be highly stealthy, resistant to jamming and capable of engaging threats at very long range, while leaving the competition open to domestic and international suppliers.
