In what comes as a major boost to Pakistan's artillery capabilities along the border with India, Islamabad has deployed a large number of Chinese-made SH-15 truck-mounted self-propelled howitzers along its eastern frontier.
According to media reports, the deployment is part of Pakistan's efforts to strengthen its long-range artillery capabilities against India.
Weighing 25 tonnes, the 155mm/52-calibre SH-15 is the export version of China's PCL-181 truck-mounted self-propelled howitzer and is capable of firing a wide range of ammunition. Mounted on a 6×6 truck, the system can travel at speeds of nearly 90 kmph on roads and has an operational range of more than 600 km, allowing it to be rapidly redeployed across different sectors.
Pakistan is reportedly the largest export customer of the Chinese-made system and has inducted around 250 SH-15 howitzers as part of its ongoing artillery modernisation programme, significantly strengthening its long-range firepower.
Built on a Shaanxi 6×6 truck chassis with an armoured cabin, the SH-15 combines mobility with firepower. Its ability to be airlifted to remote locations gives Pakistan greater flexibility to reinforce sensitive sectors, including difficult terrain, at short notice.
Designed for high-altitude operations, rapid-reaction missions and expeditionary deployments, the system is capable of supporting mechanised formations and can be operated by a crew of six soldiers.
The SH-15 is equipped with an advanced fire-control system comprising a ballistic computer, inertial navigation, satellite positioning and automatic gun-laying. It is also compatible with precision-guided munitions, including laser-guided and satellite-guided projectiles, enabling more accurate engagement of targets.
Its strike range depends on the type of ammunition used. The system can hit targets at 25-30 km using standard shells, 35-40 km with base-bleed ammunition and around 50-53 km with rocket-assisted projectiles. This provides Pakistan with the flexibility to engage targets at varying distances depending on operational requirements.
