U.S. Army Contracts BAE Systems for 40 M109A7 Paladin Howitzers Worth $473 Million
The U.S. Army has awarded BAE Systems a $473 million contract for 40 M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzers, marking an ongoing production effort to enhance armored artillery capabilities. The M109A7 features a redesigned chassis and cab derived from the M2 and M3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, improving logistical efficiency.
It retains a 155 mm cannon but introduces modern electric drives for elevation and azimuth, enhancing maintenance and reliability. The howitzer can fire conventional rounds up to 24 kilometers, extending to 30 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles, and is compatible with the precision-guided M982 Excalibur munition.
The vehicle's mobility is supported by a 600-horsepower engine, achieving speeds of 61 kilometers per hour. Improvements to survivability include enhanced armor and an automatic fire extinguishing system. The Paladin A7 will operate alongside the M992A3 Carrier Ammunition Tracked vehicle for sustained operations.
