Already tested on various artillery systems, first of all the PzH 2000 in service both with the
German and Italian armies, Leonardo’s Vulcano 155 GLR (Guided Long Range) ammunition was
tested in May on Caesar 155/52 self-propelled howitzer, the wheeled self-propelled artillery
howitzer developed by Nexter of France.
According to available information the Vulcano ammunition confirmed its effectiveness and
accuracy in reaching long and challenging distances and proved their compatibility with another of
the in service 155mm howitzers.
Conceived and realized to operate with high accuracy against stationary and moving point targets,
Leonardo’s Vulcano guided ammunition is able to reach a range up to 70 km with metric precision
thanks to its aerodynamics and GPS guidance. The guided configuration is equipped with a radio
frequency fuze allowing altimetric, instantaneous impact and delayed impact modes. The Vulcano
ammunition is also available with a Semi Active Laser (SAL) sensor, which allows engaging
stationary or moving laser designated targets, with an even improved precision compared to pure
GPS guidance.
In the same firing session the 155mm HE ME465 projectile, designed and manufactured by MES-
Italy has been successfully fired by other howitzers, no more details being provided. The firing test
confirmed the performances of the ME465 round in terms of range, 24 Km, as well as its higher
terminal effect compared with those of the M107 shell, this improvement being due to the 11 Kg of
High Explosive contained in the ammunition. The 155mm HE ME465 is in service with NATO
Armed Forces.
by Valerio del Grande