Turkey continues to strengthen its domestic capabilities in land-based defense systems. Developed by Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE), the 155mm/52 caliber YAVUZ Howitzer has been redesigned to meet the dynamic demands of modern battlefields. The system, engineered entirely with national resources, is now integrated onto a 6×6 tactical wheeled vehicle, combining enhanced mobility with powerful fire support.
Rapid Deployment, Effective Firepower
One of YAVUZ’s standout features is its high mobility. Thanks to the 6×6 platform, it can navigate harsh terrain with ease and transition to firing position in a short time, enabling “shoot-and-scoot” tactics effectively. The system operates with a crew of five and can reach speeds up to 90 km/h. With a maximum operational range of 600 km, it can respond quickly across wide combat zones.
Versatile Fire Support with Multiple Ammunition Types
YAVUZ has been designed to operate with various types of ammunition. It offers:
- 18 km range with M107
- 30 km with M549A1
- And up to 40 km with MOD274 modern ammunition.
With a firing rate of 4 to 6 rounds per minute and a total ammunition capacity of 18 shells, YAVUZ ensures sustained and powerful support during engagements.
Indigenous Design, Global Standards
Equipped with a high-precision automatic fire control system, the turret provides accurate targeting at various elevation and inclination angles. It features elevation capability up to +1165 mil, depression down to -53 mil, and a horizontal traverse of ±300 mil, offering wide area engagement.
The vehicle is engineered to handle challenging terrain, including:
- 0.45 m trench crossing
- 45° incline climbing
- 1 m fording capability
Weighing 32 tons, it is powered by a Euro-5 compliant eco-friendly diesel engine.
Modular and Efficient for Modern Forces
The modular architecture of YAVUZ reduces the logistical burden and simplifies maintenance and repair in the field. It can be loaded manually or semi-automatically, adapting easily to a variety of operational environments. This design ensures economic and sustainable deployment.
Turkey’s Howitzer Power on the Rise
YAVUZ stands out among the limited number of countries producing 155mm/52 caliber self-propelled howitzers, demonstrating Turkey’s growing expertise in artillery systems. Offering a fast, effective, and fully indigenous fire support solution, YAVUZ is poised not only to serve the Turkish Armed Forces but also to strengthen Turkey’s position in global defense exports.
YAVUZ Howitzer at a Glance
- Caliber: 155 mm / 52
- Platform: 6×6 tactical wheeled vehicle
- Crew: 5
- Rate of Fire: 4–6 rounds/min
- Range: 18 km – 40 km (depending on ammunition)
- Ammunition Capacity: 18 rounds
- Engine: Euro-5 diesel
- Top Speed: 90 km/h
- Operational Range: 600 km
- Weight: 32 tons
