BREAKING NEWS
Operational Purpose and Role
BORAN was developed to address the operational gap between heavy 155 mm towed/self-propelled howitzers and shorter-range mortar systems. It provides effective indirect fire support to light infantry, commando brigades, and air assault units operating in mountainous, remote, or infrastructure-limited environments.
The 105 mm caliber was selected to balance firepower, deployability, and logistical efficiency. Compared to heavier artillery systems, BORAN enables rapid air insertion and quick repositioning while still delivering effective high-explosive fire support.
Doctrine and Concept of Employment
BORAN is doctrinally positioned as a highly mobile artillery asset optimized for:
Its ability to be sling-loaded under medium-lift helicopters allows artillery support to be deployed alongside forward infantry elements. With a setup time of less than one minute, the system supports shoot-and-scoot tactics, minimizing vulnerability to counter-battery fire.
Platform Architecture
BORAN integrates conventional towed artillery mechanics with modern digital subsystems:
The digital fire control unit reduces reliance on manual ballistic calculations, accelerating target engagement cycles and improving accuracy.
Survivability and Protection Philosophy
BORAN does not incorporate armored protection. Instead, survivability is achieved through:
This mobility-based survivability concept reduces exposure time and enhances tactical flexibility.
Accuracy and Engagement Process
The GPS-supported fire control system enables rapid coordinate-based targeting. The general engagement process includes:
With a rate of fire of up to 6 rounds per minute, BORAN can provide both sustained and rapid suppressive fire.
Advantages and Limitations Against Modern Threats
Advantages:
Limitations:
Operational Status
BORAN has entered service with the Turkish Armed Forces. It is publicly known to be deployed within commando units. While export discussions have been reported in open sources, confirmed foreign operators are limited in publicly available data.
Detailed Technical Specifications
Dimensions and Weight
Performance
Operating Conditions
Temperature range: -32 °C to +44 °C
Fire Control and Sighting
Publicly available sources do not indicate integrated radar or EO/IR targeting systems.
Ammunition
Compatible with NATO-standard 105 mm ammunition, including:
Publicly verified information regarding precision-guided 105 mm munitions integration is limited.
Mobility and Logistics
The exact crew requirement is not publicly disclosed in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BORAN howitzer used for?
What is its maximum range?
Can it be transported by helicopter?
What is its rate of fire?
What types of ammunition does it use?
How does it compare to 155 mm systems?
Is it armored?
Sources