PLL05
Overview
PLL05
A PLL05 self-propelled gun/mortar in the field.
Source: Chinese internet -
© copyright lies with original owner
2005 (Chinese state trails)
Description
Introduction
The PLL05 is a modern self-propelled mortar of Chinese origin. It was developed in the early 2000's and is in Chinese service since 2008. The design of the main armament may have been derived from the Russian 2S23 Nona-SVK and was probably developed with Russian aid. The PLL05 is a capable gun/mortar that can be used for both direct and indirect fire.
Layout
The PLL05 is based on the WZ-551 6x6 wheeled chassis, which is already in use for various other roles. For instance the ZSL-92 infantry fighting vehicle is common in Chinese service. In the PLL05 the rear troop compartment houses a two man turret. This turret is an improved version of a 120mm gun/mortar turret that was developed around 2001 for export sales.
Firepower
The main armament is the breach loaded 120mm gun/mortar that is connected to a semi-automatic loader. The maximum effective range is 8.5 km for 120mm mortar rounds, 9.5 km for a howitzer like projectile and 12.8 km for rocket assisted mortar shells. It is mainly used for indirect fire but is also capable of direct fire using both HE and HEAT-FS shells up to 1.2 km. The maximum rate of fire is 6 to 10 rounds per minute. Secondary armament consists of the 12.7mm QJC88 heavy machine gun which is mounted on the turret roof. The QJC88 is used for self-defense against nearby infantry, light armored vehicles and helicopters.
Protection
The steel armor of the WZ-551 chassis protects the crew against small arms fire and shell splinters. When firing the gun/mortar the crew remains under armor protection. There are two banks of three smoke grenade launchers on the turret and an NBC system is fitted.
Mobility
The 6x6 chassis gives the PLL05 a good mobility on roads and reasonable cross country performance. A Deutz 320hp diesel engine connected to an automatic gearbox provides propulsion. The maximum road speed is 85 km/h and the range is 600 km on roads. Even though the PLL05 is heavier than most WZ-551 variants it remains fully amphibious. In the water it is propelled by two steerable propellers located behind the rear wheels.
Users
The PLL05 is in service only with the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army. It is not in widespread service, but is a piece of standard equipment as it is used by light mechanized infantry divisions. A total of 18 vehicles make up a battalion. The PLL05, or at least the original turret design, remains available for export.
Details
Media
PLL05 prototype
Early development prototype showing shorter gun/mortar turret that was developed for export.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLL05
Four PLL05 with digital camouflage and white wall tires during a parade.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLL05
Front view of PLL05 with turret traversed to the left and showing the steerable front axles.
Source: unknown author @ www.imageshack.us
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
PLL05
PLL05 in digital camouflage. The propellers are clearly visible behind the rear tires.
Source: Chinese internet
Copyright: copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
2S23 Nona-SVK
The design concept of the PLL05, and possibly even its main armament, is derived from the Russian 2S23 Nona self-propelled mortar.
ZSL92
The PLZ05 is based on the same 6x6 chassis as the ZSL92 infantry fighting vehicle.
PPZ10
The PPZ10 uses the same turret with 120mm smoothbore gun mortar but is mounted on a tracked chassis.