Vietnam Develops Self-Propelled Howitzer Based on Soviet D-20

Vietnam is preparing a presentation of a new self-propelled artillery system based on the Soviet 152 mm D-20 howitzer.

The photo by Tong Le Thang was published by Vietnamese blogger Lee Ann Quann.

Viettel, a state-owned defense corporation, brought the previously unknown 152 mm system to the Hanoi International Exhibition Center on Independence Day. By analogy with earlier products, it may be designated PTH152.

The wheeled howitzer is mounted on a Russian KamAZ-6560 four-axle truck chassis with an armored cab of original design and a rotating gun mount.

Vietnam does not manufacture its own tube artillery and instead adapts existing towed guns for self-propelled use. Viettel has previously developed the PTH105 based on the U.S. M101 and the PTH130 based on the Soviet M-46.

The new system appears to use the 152 mm D-20 howitzer, recognizable by its distinctive barrel design and length.

Its ballistic performance and engagement capabilities remain the same as the towed version, with a maximum range of 17 kilometers using standard rounds and up to 24 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles.

Judging by the windows in the turret, the prototype does not appear to have automation systems and will require a gunner and a loader.

The project’s main purpose is likely to improve the mobility and survivability of Vietnamese artillery units through relatively low-cost modernization.

Alongside the prototype, the exhibition will also feature the PTH130, first presented in 2021, developed on the basis of the M-46 gun and mounted on a reinforced KrAZ-255B truck chassis.

The 130 mm wheeled howitzer was designed by the Military Technical Institute using stock components from the Ministry of Defense.

At the same time, Vietnam is rearming with modern artillery, having selected South Korea’s K9 Thunder howitzer. Earlier this year, Militarnyi reported Hanoi’s interest in the system, and an agreement had since been signed to acquire several dozen units.