While the artillery corps of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are introducing the new Elbit Systems artillery cannon into service, it creates great interest in some European countries.
The Roem (which means “thunderous”) was recently unveiled to representatives of the armies from the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany, and Hungary. Most of its subsystems are classified, and recently Elbit built a prototype of an export version. The cannon demonstrated the ability to fire at least eight rounds per minute, surpassing earlier models, and the shells are automatically reloaded.
While tests showed that it could shoot at targets located 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the cannon, in actual use, the range would be greater. The European version of this weapon will use different shells and be capable of hitting targets at ranges up to 80 kilometers (50 miles). The European version will differ geometrically from the Israeli version, but the basic design will be the same.
The cannon moves on wheels, which according to Elbit, gives the system higher maneuverability. In March, Rheinmetall and Elbit Systems successfully conducted a live-fire demonstration of an automated 155mm L52 wheeled self-propelled howitzer. The demonstration of the new system took place at the Shivta firing range in southern Israel and was attended by high-ranking officials of the armed forces of the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Hungary.
Rheinmetall and Elbit Systems signed a cooperation agreement last year to develop, manufacture, and market an automated European 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer system. Led by Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, the “Rheinmetall Elbit” team will compete for Germany’s “Future System, Indirect Fire, Medium-Range (ZukSysIndF)” program, which will modernize and broaden the Bundeswehr’s artillery capabilities. The UK’s “Mobile Fires Platform” program also remains a focus, and additional potential customers, such as Hungary, have expressed interest.
The cooperation between Rheinmetall and Elbit builds on the fully automated wheeled self-propelled howitzer procurement programs that Elbit has signed with Israel and additional customers. As a result, a technically mature system is already available, enabling the integration of a Rheinmetall gun into the unmanned, fully robotic artillery turret of the Elbit system. The integration is currently in an advanced phase of the verification process. This will help reduce development risks and enable faster realization of operational readiness.
Intensive bilateral technology transfer is currently underway, increasing the availability of domestic know-how and components. Rheinmetall is currently carrying out modifications to customize the system to European operational requirements and the German regulatory approval process. Furthermore, the Düsseldorf-based tech enterprise brings its tried-and-tested 155mm L52 gun; high mobility HX 10×10 tactical truck with a well-protected cabin; and electronic components for the fire control unit and sensor suite to the solution.
