World’s Lightest 155mm Howitzer Makes Its Indian Debut

NEW DELHI, India: BAE Systems will display the world’s most battle-proven lightweight 155mm towed howitzer on its stand for the first time in India at the 5th Defence and Naval Exhibition (DEFEXPO) in New Delhi [Hall 10, Stand 12]. 
 
The M777 howitzer is the world’s first artillery system to incorporate the large-scale use of titanium and aluminium alloys, resulting in a field gun that is half the weight of conventional 155mm systems. Weighing less than 4220kg, it is the world’s lightest 155mm howitzer. With its low profile, high survivability, and quick deployment and stowage capabilities, the M777 can be positioned rapidly in the most challenging theatres of operation. 
 
“We believe M777 is the lowest-risk, most capable solution for ultra lightweight howitzer requirements,” says Mike Mendoza, BAE Systems’ managing director India. “Its modular design allows efficient, cost-effective transfer of technology and work share for industrial partners. 
 
The M777 is currently in operation with the Canadian and U.S. armed forces, with 300 howitzers delivered to the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. BAE Systems has orders for up to 400 additional systems from these existing customers. 
 
The A2 version of the M777 incorporates a software update that enables the gun to programme and fire the M982 Excalibur guided projectile. The combined system has a maximum range of 40km with accuracy on target of within ten metres. The M777 can be sling-loaded by medium-lift helicopters and airdropped by C-130 transport aircraft. 
 
The M777 is currently manufactured by BAE Systems at its facilities at Barrow-in-Furness in the UK and Hattiesburg, Mississippi, in the U.S.  
 
BAE Systems is the premier global defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With 96,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems' sales exceeded £15 billion (US $27 billion) in 2006 on a pro forma basis, assuming BAE Systems had owned Armor for the whole of 2006.