Brasília (DF) – On April 29, 2024, the Brazilian Army (EB), through the Logistics Command’s Chief of Material (C Mat/COLOG), announced the result of the analysis of the final offers from the shortlist companies participating in the process to acquire the 155 mm SR Self-Propelled Howitzer Armored Combat Vehicle (VBCOAP 155 mm SR), a component of the Army’s Strategic Armored Forces Program.
The VBC OAP 155 mm SR “Atmos 155 mm 52 Caliber, mounted on a Tatra T-815 6×6 chassis”, from the company “Elbit Systems Land Ltd”, qualified in 1st place, winning the international bidding process that began on August 17, 2023. The Atmos 6×6 met all the absolute requirements set by the EB. It is considered one of the best systems in the world for its category of howitzers.
The Atmos 155 mm is known for its high precision and range of over 40 km. It is considered the “state of the art” in its category and is referred to as the “Sniper” of Army artillery. The system is capable of firing with a high level of precision in less than two minutes, thanks to its ballistic computer and inertial navigation system (INS)4.
Compared to other artillery systems, the Atmos 155 mm stands out for its simple operation, speed of entry and exit from position, ease of loading and low logistics costs throughout its life cycle. In addition, it has the ability to operate in a network with other vehicles and artillery units, as well as being able to receive target information sent by external sensors, such as remotely piloted aircraft or radars.
Therefore, in terms of precision, the Atmos 155 mm is highly competitive and is considered one of the best self-propelled wheeled artillery systems at the moment.
The aim of the acquisition is to modernize and expand the fire support capacity and effectiveness of the Ground Force’s Field Artillery.
The Atmos 155 mm is a self-propelled howitzer of high quality and precision. Here are some of its main features:
- Range: The Atmos has a range of over 40 km.
- Operation: It is simple to operate, with rapid entry and exit from position and firing.
- Loading: It is easy to load.
- Logistics costs: Atmos has low logistics costs throughout its life cycle.
- Modularity: It uses an innovative concept of total modularity, being much more than a simple piece of artillery mounted on a truck, but a complete multi-platform and multi-weapon system.
- Ballistic protection: The version proposed for the Brazilian Army will use the Tatra Force T-815-7, 6X6 platform, with a cabin fitted with ballistic protection to protect its garrison.
- Main armament: Its main armament will be a version of the 52-caliber M-71 howitzer, with 18 complete howitzers (grenades and charges) transported in protected compartments.
The Atmos 155 mm self-propelled howitzer uses advanced targeting and fire control systems. Although the specific details of these systems may vary depending on the customer’s needs, they generally include the following:
- Fire Control System: The Atmos has a computerized fire control system that allows it to quickly calculate firing solutions. This allows the artillery to hit targets accurately and efficiently.
- Aiming System: The Atmos uses an advanced targeting system that can include a combination of optical, laser and infrared sights. This allows the Atmos crew to identify and track targets accurately, even in conditions of limited visibility.
- Inertial Navigation System (INS): The Atmos is equipped with an inertial navigation system that allows the position and orientation of the howitzer to be determined. This is crucial for calculating the correct firing solutions.
- Global Positioning System (GPS): Atmos also uses GPS to provide precise location data. This helps ensure that the howitzer is always in the correct position to hit its targets.
- These systems work together to enable the Atmos to carry out artillery missions effectively and accurately.
The Brazilian Army chose the Atmos 155 mm 52 Caliber for the acquisition of the 155 mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Combat Vehicle (VBCOAP 155 mm SR), as part of the Army’s Strategic Armored Forces Program. Elbit Systems Land Ltd was declared the winner of the international tender process that began on August 17, 2023.
After signing the initial contract, Elbit must deliver two so-called “Sample Batches” within 12 months, which will then be subjected to tough technical and operational evaluations in Brazil. After passing the tests, COLOG will sign the main contract for the supply of a further 34 systems, which will be delivered in annual batches until 2034.
This howitzer is considered one of the best systems in the world for its category. The aim of the acquisition is to modernize and expand the fire support capacity and effectiveness of the Ground Force’s Field Artillery.