Philippine blog MaxDefense reported that Elbit Systems Land & C4I has finally delivered the Soltam ATMOS 155mm/52cal self propelled howitzers and support equipment for the Philippine Army. These were acquired under the 155mm Howtizer, Self Propelled System Acquisition Project as part of the Horizon 2 phase priority projects of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program. The Soltam ATMOS uses the MAN cabin-protected off-road truck platform. Aside from these mobile firing units, also seen were support vehicles which also uses MAN trucks.
The Philippines Department of National Defense (DND) is set to conclude its planned procurement of the ATMOS 155 mm/52 calibre self-propelled gun system produced by Israeli firm Elbit Systems. The Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana issued a “notice to proceed” (NTP) supporting the ATMOS acquisition, which is valued at about USD47 million, in early April 2020. It confirmed that the ATMOS contract has a value of PHP2.386 billion (USD47.2 million) and features the supply and delivery of 12 units. A total of 8 systems were delivered to the Philippine Army on 30 Dec 2021, 4 more to be delivered in 2022 to complete 2 batteries.
ATMOS (Autonomous Truck Mounted howitzer System) is a 155 mm/52 calibre self-propelled gun system manufactured by Israeli military manufacturer Soltam Systems. The system is long range, fast moving, truck mounted with high firepower and mobility, rapid deployment, short response time, operable in all terrain areas. The system is integrated with a fully computerized system, providing an automatic control, accurate navigation and target acquisition, the system is offered with various gun calibers, ranging from 39 to 52 calibre, in order to meet different customer requirements.
The ATMOS is fitted with a 155 mm/52 calibre ordnance which conforms to NATO Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding (JBMoU), and is mounted on a 6 × 6 cross-country truck chassis. The breech mechanism is horizontal sliding which automatically opens to the right with a self-sealing metal obturating ring. With a 155 mm/52 barrel, a 41 km maximum range can be achieved, using Extended Range Full-Bore – Base Bleed (ERFB-BB) projectile, 30 km firing the NATO L15 High Explosive (HE) projectile and 24.5 km firing the older M107 HE projectile. The ATMOS 2000 carries a total of 27 155 mm projectiles and associated charges and can be operated by a 4-man crew, consisting of two loaders positioned one either side at the rear. The system provides a rate of fire of between 4 and 9 rds/min.