Supply of new self-propelled guns is rising to meet looming demand
The Paladin SPH is operated in its thousands. (Photo: US Army)
There has been a surge in demand for self-propelled guns (SPGs) or self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) in recent years, with some of the major beneficiaries being the venerable BAE Systems’ M109 Paladin, Hanwha Aerospace’s K9 Thunder, KMW+Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) France’s CAmion Equipé d’un Système d’ARtillerie (CAESAR), BAE Systems Bofors’ Archer and KNDS Germany’s PzH 2000.
There are more than 13,000 of these five types in service, while twice that number of all types are believed to be in service across the world.
Across NATO and Western European NATO-allied countries, such as Partnership for Peace members, the
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
-
Front-line support: how UK industry is helping tackle Ukraine’s landmine challenges
Pearson Engineering has provided equipment and engineering expertise to the Armed Forces of Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. The British company is now working to deepen engagement with the Ukrainian defence industry, expanding its support for the country’s population and laying the foundations for future technological innovation.
-
AUSA 2026: industry looks to make commercial platforms a military reality
With a production rate of more than 10 million vehicles annually, the US commercial car and vehicle manufacturing base is second only to China. Defence companies are looking at how the vehicles, technology and manufacturing capability can support programmes.
-
With changing patterns in Middle Eastern procurement, is Europe missing out?
Traditional suppliers are struggling to meet the Middle East’s armoured vehicle modernisation needs, creating opportunities for South Korean manufacturers and regional defence industries.
-
AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements
New developments from MARSS, MyDefence, Mountain Horse Solutions and Rafael suggest that future counter-drone protection will increasingly depend on combining advanced detection, rapid interception and integrated defensive networks.