Type 19 155 mm Wheeled Self-propelled Howitzer

In 2011, the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MOD) evaluated a proposal to develop a vehicle capable of networking with other systems and performing shoot-and-scoot tactics to replace the FH70.[1] The MOD's evaluation finished in 2012 and requested 6.4 billion yen be invested into the development of the vehicle in the FY 2013 defense budget; with development and testing occurring between 2013 and 2016.[2] Research and development of the 155 mm wheeled howitzer was granted in the FY 2013 defense budget, although the budget was lowered to 1.4 billion yen.[3]

On 31 May 2018, the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) received 5 prototypes from Japan Steel Works for testing and evaluation.[4]

Seven wheeled howitzers were procured for training purpose in the FY 2019 defense budget for a total of 5.1 billion yen.[5]

The artillery was officially unveiled in the 2019 East Fuji Maneuver Area.[6]

The vehicle features an L52 155 mm gun mounted on the back of an 8x8 truck chassis.[4] Compared to the towed FH70, the wheeled howitzer is designed to be mobile and networked to a Firing Command and Control System, which receives targeting information from artillery observers.[7]

According to the FY 2013 defense budget request, the wheeled howitzer features the barrel part used on the Type 99 155 mm self-propelled howitzer and body of a heavy wheeled recovery vehicle to reduce development cost.[8] The truck chassis is a RMMV HX 8x8 military truck.[6]