China Developing new Howitzer Based on Type 15 Tank Chassis

China is reportedly developing a new howitzer with a range of at least 40km based on Type 15 tank chassis.

Photographs circulating on social media show an armored vehicle armed with long-barrel artillery. Judging by the images, reports said it would be derived from China’s Type 15 lightweight main battle tank. The maximum range of the 155mm howitzer is expected to be at least 40km.

The Type 15 was used as the basis for the development of the VN-17 heavy infantry fighting vehicle. Weighing 30 tons, it is armed with a 30 mm automatic cannon and third-generation anti-tank missiles. It can accommodate 10 soldiers.

Type 15 tank has a max speed of 70kmph and range of over 400km. It weighs between 33-36 tons depending on the armor package. It is armed with 105mm rifled gun with thermal sleeve and fume extractor, 40mm automatic grenade launcher and a 12.7mm machine gun.