AS-90

AS-90. The AS-90 is a British self-propelled artillery piece that entered service in the early 1990s. Designed by Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering to replace older systems like the Abbot and the M109 howitzer, it became the principal indirect fire support asset for the British Army's armoured divisions. Its introduction marked a significant advancement in the Royal Artillery's capabilities, featuring enhanced automation, range, and mobility.

Development and design

The AS-90 was developed under the "Artillery System for the 1990s" program, a project initiated by the Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom) to modernize the British Armed Forces. The design contract was awarded to Vickers Defence Systems after the cancellation of the SP70 multinational project involving the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. Key design features included a fully automated ammunition handling system and a powerful Cummins diesel engine, providing high strategic and tactical mobility. The vehicle's hydropneumatic suspension allows for rapid gun laying and increased stability when firing, while its welded steel armour offers protection against shell splinters and small arms fire. The turret and fire control system were engineered to allow a burst rate of three rounds in under ten seconds, a significant improvement over previous generations of self-propelled artillery.

Operational history

The AS-90 entered operational service with the Royal Artillery in 1993, equipping regiments such as the 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. Its first major deployment was during the Bosnian War as part of the United Nations Protection Force, providing fire support and a visible deterrent. The system saw extensive use during the Iraq War, particularly in the Battle of Basra (2003) and subsequent operations, where its reliability and firepower were demonstrated in support of 1st (UK) Armoured Division. More recently, AS-90s have been deployed on exercises across Europe, including in Poland and the Baltic states, as part of NATO reassurance measures. They have also been a core component of the British Army's contribution to the Joint Expeditionary Force.

Variants

The primary variant is the standard AS-90, of which 179 were produced. An upgraded version, known as the AS-90D, was proposed for the desert environment with enhanced cooling and filtration systems. The most significant upgrade program was the "Braveheart" project, which aimed to fit a new, longer 52-caliber barrel developed by BAE Systems to increase range, though this was ultimately cancelled. Some vehicles were also fitted with the Gunner's Primary Sight and improved LINAPS artillery pointing systems to enhance accuracy. Discussions for a major replacement under the Mobile Fires Platform program have been ongoing, with potential successors including the Archer Artillery System and the K9 Thunder.

Operators

The sole operator of the AS-90 is the British Army. All vehicles are operated by the Royal Artillery, within formations such as the 3rd (UK) Division and the 7th Infantry Brigade. Regiments historically equipped with the AS-90 include the 19th Regiment Royal Artillery and the 26th Regiment Royal Artillery. No AS-90s have been exported, though the platform was marketed to several nations, including Oman and Saudi Arabia, without resulting sales. The systems are primarily based at locations like Larkhill Garrison and Catterick Garrison.

Specifications

The AS-90 is armed with a 155 mm L31 howitzer with a 39-caliber barrel, capable of firing all standard NATO ammunition including the L15 high-explosive shell and M982 Excalibur guided round. Its secondary armament is a 7.62 mm L7 General Purpose Machine Gun. The vehicle is powered by a Cummins VTA903T V8 diesel engine producing 660 horsepower, coupled to a Renk automatic transmission. It uses a hydropneumatic suspension system for improved cross-country performance and firing stability. Key performance figures include a maximum road speed of 53 km/h, an operational range of 370 kilometres, and a fording depth of 1.5 metres. The fire control system integrates inertial navigation and GPS for autonomous operation.

Category:Self-propelled artillery of the United Kingdom Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1990s