M109 A3GA1 self-propelled howitzer
For decades, the M109 self-propelled howitzer was the main weapon system of the Bundeswehr artillery.
While the Bundeswehr switched to German models for battle tanks and armored personnel carriers early on, it remained true to American products for tank artillery. The M109 self-propelled howitzer eliminated the weaknesses of the previous M7 and M44 models:
The vehicle was armored all around, had a turret and now had a diesel engine. In addition, a contemporary 155 mm gun was installed.
The M109 A3GA1 self-propelled howitzer on display here is the upgraded variant of the M109. In contrast to the original model, the new variant had an extended 155 mm gun barrel, more storage space and a protected panorama periscope.
This modernization increased the range from around 18 km to 24.7 km.
The M109 self-propelled howitzer was used on the Augustdorfer PzArtBtl 215 from 1966 to 2006. In the A3GA1 variant shown here since 1987. In 2006 it was converted to the Panzerhaubitze 2000.
Technical specifications
| Development: | 1950s |
| Country of origin: | USA (conversion by Rheinmetall, Germany) |
| Number of pieces: | 586 (All versions in the Bundeswehr) |
| Crew: | 6 + 2 |
| Dimensions L/W/H: | 8.93m (with tube) / 3.11m / 3.3m |
| Engine: | Diesel (Detroit Diesel 8V7 1 T) |
| Displacement: | 9298 ccm |
| Engine power: | 356 PS |
| Speed: | 43 km/h (Road) |
| Fuel Stock: | 510 l |
| Consumption: | 156 l / 100 km |
| Driving range: | 350 km (Road) |
| Armament: | 155 mm L/38 howitzer and 7.62 mm machine gun |
| Ammunition: | 34 (projectiles and propellant charges separately) |
| Cadence: | approx. 5 shots / min |