The Strategic Demand for Artillery Systems in Contemporary Warfare
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has underscored the vital role of indirect fire, prompting numerous militaries to reassess their artillery capabilities. The Italian Army is among those revisiting their artillery needs, particularly looking to enhance their forces with a wheeled system for deployment alongside their two medium brigades. Leonardo, a prominent defense contractor, is addressing this necessity through its advanced RH1-155/52 HITFIRE artillery system.
Overview of the RH1-155/52 HITFIRE System
Recently, select Italian defense journalists attended a demonstration at the Nettuno experimental firing range, highlighting the RH1-155/52 HITFIRE.
Luca Perazzo, Deputy Managing Director of Defense Systems at Leonardo, articulated the development goals for this state-of-the-art 155mm artillery system. The focus has been on an innovative automated loading mechanism, designed over the past 18 months, which aims to deliver a system that is not only light and user-friendly but also highly reliable.
Key Features and Specifications
-
Mass and Mobility: In combat configuration, the HITFIRE turret will weigh less than 13 tonnes, with a total load capacity of 30 rounds and 180 modular charges. This capability enables effective operation in various combat scenarios.
-
Gun System: The 155/52 mm gun, an evolution of earlier designs, embodies a chamber volume of 23 liters and complies with JBMOU standards. Its barrel design incorporates 48 grooves with a right-handed twist rate, facilitating high precision.
-
Loading Mechanism: The integrative loading mechanism allows for rounds and charges to be loaded at any elevation, significantly enhancing operational flexibility. The system minimizes reliance on electric motors, favoring mechanical components that ensure ease of maintenance and reliability.
-
Ammunition Compatibility: The system accommodates standard artillery shells, including the longer Vulcano rounds, ensuring versatility in operational capabilities.
System Performance and Next Steps
During recent demonstrations, the HITFIRE technology demonstrator showcased initial functionality with smaller magazines. The objective currently is to optimize the operations of the automated loading mechanism rather than to assess the rate of fire. Leonardo is actively developing a prototype expected to be completed in approximately seven months, with a target operational capability of 10 rounds per minute.
-
Range: The maximum firing range is projected at 42 kilometers with base-bleed rounds, extending to 70 kilometers with Vulcano munitions. Furthermore, the RH1-155/52 is designed to facilitate multi-round simultaneous impact (MRSI) operations, firing five to six rounds simultaneously.
-
Overall Design: With a combat mass under 35 tonnes, the HITFIRE leverages a powerful 720 hp engine, resulting in an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
Defensive Features
Recognizing the vulnerability of artillery systems in modern combat, the HITFIRE incorporates several protective and self-defense systems:
-
Ballistic Protection: The turret can be fitted with enhanced armor based on customer requirements, utilizing composite materials and innovative solutions currently under development.
-
Self-Protection Measures: The system includes a laser warning receiver for detection of targeting systems and smoke grenade launchers for multispectral concealment. The top-mounted HITROLE Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) will further augment its defensive capabilities, offering anti-drone measures.
Future Development and Strategic Impact
Leonardo’s forward-looking approach emphasizes not just meeting national requirements but also exploring export opportunities. The RH1-155/52 is slated for integration onto the VBM Plus 8×8 platform, with modifications underway to optimize the system’s weight distribution and performance characteristics.
Conclusion
As armies globally adapt their strategies and capabilities in response to evolving threats, the development of advanced artillery systems like the RH1-155/52 HITFIRE exemplifies the imperative of modern military readiness. Leonardo’s initiative positions Italy to enhance its artillery capacity significantly while simultaneously addressing potential international market needs. The pathway to full operational capability is anticipated by late 2026 or early 2027, marking a critical advancement in modern artillery technology.
