August 20, 2024 – Bishoftu, Ethiopia: The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) has embarked on a new initiative to enhance its artillery capabilities by converting several Chinese-made WZ551 6×6 armored personnel carriers (APCs) into self-propelled howitzers. This innovative adaptation involves integrating Soviet-era D-30 122mm towed howitzers, transforming these vehicles from their original role as troop carriers into mobile artillery platforms.
This recent development, announced on August 7, reflects Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to modernize and optimize its military assets. The conversions were carried out at the Defence Engineering Industry Corporation near Bishoftu, a key facility within Ethiopia’s defense sector. A photograph accompanying the announcement revealed at least four such modified vehicles, showcasing the significant progress made in this endeavor.
The modification of the WZ551 APCs aligns with Ethiopia’s broader strategy of maximizing the utility of its existing military resources. Historically, the Ethiopian military has employed similar tactics, such as mounting D-30 howitzers on T-55 tank chassis to create self-propelled artillery systems. This approach allows the ENDF to enhance its combat capabilities cost-effectively, particularly in the face of budgetary constraints.
The WZ551 APC, originally developed by China in the 1980s, was designed as a versatile wheeled vehicle platform capable of fulfilling various roles, from troop transport to anti-aircraft duties. Despite its initial shortcomings in performance, the WZ551 underwent significant improvements, leading to the Type 92 (WZ551A) variant, which saw widespread use within the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF) and export to several countries.
By converting these APCs into self-propelled howitzers, the ENDF is not only extending the service life of the WZ551 but also enhancing its artillery capabilities. The installation of the D-30 howitzer, a reliable Soviet-era artillery piece known for its versatility and ease of use, represents a practical solution to Ethiopia’s need for mobile firepower.
This initiative comes at a time when Ethiopia has also been acquiring more modern artillery systems, raising questions about the continued use of older Soviet-era equipment. In November 2023, Ethiopia received 32 SH-15 155mm self-propelled howitzers from China North Industries Corporation (Norinco), an advanced system compatible with precision-guided munitions. The decision to repurpose the WZ551 suggests a strategy focused on balancing modern acquisitions with the adaptation of existing assets to meet immediate operational needs.
The D-30 howitzer, first introduced in the early 1960s, has a long history of use in various global conflicts, from the Afghan-Soviet War to the Syrian Civil War. Its widespread adoption across different military forces is a testament to its reliability and effectiveness. With a maximum range of 15.4 kilometers and a rapid rate of fire, the D-30 remains a relevant and valuable asset in many developing nations’ arsenals.
The conversion of the WZ551 APCs into self-propelled howitzers represents a continuation of Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities through resourceful adaptations. This move is consistent with the country’s military practices, where innovation and practicality often go hand in hand.
As Ethiopia continues to modernize its military, the integration of older, proven technologies with newer systems could provide a balanced approach to maintaining operational readiness. This strategy ensures that the ENDF remains capable of responding to various threats while making the most of its available resources.
The ongoing modifications and enhancements underscore Ethiopia’s commitment to building a robust and adaptable defense force, capable of addressing both current and future challenges.
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