What is the M109A7 Paladin? The standard 155 mm self-propelled howitzer of the U.S.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | 155 mm tracked self-propelled howitzer (SPH) |
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems (formerly Cadillac Gage, FMC) |
| Caliber | 155 mm |
| Barrel Length | L/39 (for A6/A7 after 1990) |
| Range | ≈22-30 km (standard HE), ≈50 km (Excalibur) |
| Rate of Fire | Peak ≈4 rounds/min; sustainable ≈1 round/min |
| Ammunition | Standard HE, M982 Excalibur GPS guided, M712 Copperhead laser guided |
| Crew | 4 personnel |
| Engine | Cummins V903 diesel, 600 hp |
| Road Speed | ≈61 km/h |
| Road Range | ≈350 km |
| Armor | Steel cab, improved resistance to IEDs |
| First Operation | 1963 (M109); A7 variant 2014+ |
| Users | U.S. + 50+ countries (Turkey transitioned to ATTİLA and Fırtına programs) |
Why is it still in use?
- The industrial chain of 60 years is still alive in the U.S.
- Inventory of 50+ countries — abundance of spare parts
- Variant A7 modernized with new electronics
- Range of 50 km with Excalibur
- Short range but large quantity
- Standard part of U.S. aid to Ukraine
- Turkey moved to L/52 with ATTİLA 155 and Fırtına
