G6-52

The G6-52 self-propelled gun-howitzer is a new artillery system developed by Denel. It is a further development of the combat proven G6 Rhino to meet demands of modern warfare. This new artillery system has increased firing range and increased rate of fire. The G6-52 was first revealed in 2003, however since then it was further improved. All existing G6 Rhino systems can be upgraded to the G6-52 standard. Currently this artillery is actively marketed for the export customers, however no orders were received by the late 2008.

The G6-52 is fitted with a longer 155-mm /L52 howitzer comparing with it's predecessor. It is also fitted with a fully-automatic ammunition loading and handling system. The G6-52 was originally developed with 23 and 25 liter chambers, however marketing is now concentrated on the 23 liter chamber, which meets the NATO Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding. This artillery system comes with a modular charge system and is compatible with a Denel developed V-LAP rocket assisted projectiles, as well as standard NATO 155-mm ammunition. The G6-52 has a range of 58 km with V-LAP projectile. When firing a high-explosive extended-range full bore projectile maximum range is 33 km. The G6-52 is capable of multiple round simultaneous impact firing. It can fire 5 rounds at 25 km range to hit target simultaneously.

Vehicle is fitted with modern fire control system. The G6-52 has automatic gun laying and navigating systems. It can stop and fire it's first round in 30 seconds. It also takes 30 seconds to leave firing position.

Welded steel armor of the G6-52 protects against 14.5-mm armor-piercing rounds at the front arc. All-round protection is against 7.62-mm armor-piercing rounds and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle can withstand a detonation of anti-tank mine under any wheel. NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems are fitted as standard.

Vehicle has a crew of five, however in case of emergency a crew of three can operate the system just as well. Ammunition reloading is semi-automatic from ground pile or ammunition resupply vehicle. Ammunition is reloaded in about 10 minutes.

The G6-52 is based on a Land Systems OMC 6x6 wheeled chassis. It is powered by unspecified diesel engine, developing 525 hp. Vehicle has an automatic tyre inflation system and is fitted with run flat inserts.

G6-52L Extended Range, fitted with 25 liter chamber. The G6-52 Extended Range has a maximum range of 67 km with a V-LAP projectile. This artillery system can launch a maximum of 6 rounds in MRSI mode.