KNDS Deutschland unveils the RCH 155 TRACKED, a new tracked version of the RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer, considered a potential replacement for the M109A7 in the U.S. Army
German company KNDS Deutschland has unveiled a new tracked version of its highly automated self-propelled howitzer, the RCH 155 TRACKED. The model was introduced during the AUSA 2025 exhibition, regarded as the premier internal forum of the U.S. Army.
According to the specialized publication Militarnyi, the system’s presence at the event suggests that KNDS views the RCH 155 TRACKED as a potential successor to the veteran M109A7 Paladin, currently in service with U.S. forces.
+ Click here to watch the RCH 155 video
Modular Design and Focus on Mobility
The new system combines the firepower and range of the original RCH 155’s AGM (Artillery Gun Module) with the protection and mobility of a tracked platform derived from the Boxer vehicle.
According to KNDS, the AGM’s unmanned turret, equipped with a Rheinmetall 155 mm/L52 gun, provides 360° traverse and full elevation coverage, using up to six modular propellant charges — without the need for external stabilizers.
+ Kalashnikov delivers modernized PPK-20 submachine guns to Russian security forces
“As a modular system, the RCH 155 TRACKED is a light, flexible, long-range artillery solution ideal for scenarios requiring tracked mobility and high crew protection,” the company stated.
Power, Range, and Automation
With a maximum weight of around 45 tons, the new tracked chassis allows the installation of combat modules of up to 17 tons—higher than the 12 tons supported by the wheeled version.
The vehicle is powered by an MTU diesel engine paired with a Renk HSWL-256 transmission, delivering up to 900 kW of power and a maximum road speed of 70 km/h, with an operational range of up to 500 km.
At the core of the system is the automated AGM turret, which carries up to 30 ready-to-fire projectiles and 144 modular charges. The loading and inductive fuze programming system is fully automated, enabling a rate of fire exceeding 8 rounds per minute.
Prospects and Replacement for the M109A7
The introduction of the RCH 155 TRACKED comes as the U.S. Army explores options to replace its M109A7 fleet, whose design dates back to the 1960s and 1970s.
With its advanced automation, digital integration, and improved mobility, KNDS’s new system positions itself as a modern and competitive candidate in the global self-propelled artillery market.
Source and images: KNDS Deutschland | Militarnyi. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
