The T-155 Firtina Howitzer program was initiated in the mid-1990s to address the Turkish Land Forces’ need for a highly mobile, long-range, and precise self-propelled artillery system. From the outset, the program focused on an integrated approach combining platform mobility, firepower, command-and-control connectivity, and logistical sustainability. The first prototype was unveiled in 1997, followed by serial production and induction into service in the early 2000s.

Operational Purpose and Role

Firtina’s primary mission is to provide deep fire support at brigade and corps level. It is designed for counter-battery fire, suppression of enemy forces, and engagement of high-value targets at long ranges. Its ability to respond rapidly to time-sensitive targets makes it a critical asset in modern combined-arms operations.

Doctrine and Concept of Use

The system is fully compatible with the shoot-and-scoot doctrine. It can quickly deploy, fire, and relocate, minimizing vulnerability to enemy counter-battery radars and UAV-enabled targeting. Within a network-centric warfare framework, Firtina can receive target data directly from forward observers, UAVs, and higher command elements.

Platform Architecture

Firtina consists of a tracked armored chassis, a 155 mm / 52-caliber main gun, an automatic ammunition loading system, and a digital fire control suite. All components are integrated through the ADOP-2000 Fire Support Automation System developed by ASELSAN, enabling seamless coordination within artillery command networks.

Survivability and Protection

The armored hull protects the crew against small arms fire and shell splinters. Survivability is primarily achieved through high mobility, short reaction time, and rapid displacement after firing. Public sources do not confirm the integration of active protection systems.

Accuracy, Reaction Time, and Engagement

From a stationary position, Firtina can be ready to fire in approximately 30 seconds. Thanks to its automatic loading mechanism, it can fire three rounds within 15 seconds. Digital ballistic computation and meteorological inputs significantly enhance accuracy.

Integration and Ecosystem

The system is designed to operate in conjunction with forward observers, artillery radars, and higher-level command-and-control systems. It forms a core element of the Turkish Land Forces’ artillery and fire support ecosystem.

Variants and Modernization

• T-155 Firtina: Initial production configuration
• T-155 Firtina 2: Upgraded version featuring improved powerpack, auxiliary power unit (APU), automation, and crew ergonomics

Some modernization details remain undisclosed in open sources.

Operational Use and Service Record

Firtina howitzers are actively operated by the Turkish Armed Forces and have been used in real combat operations, including cross-border and domestic missions. Exact deployment numbers and locations are not fully disclosed publicly.

Detailed Technical Information

Dimensions and Weight

• Combat weight: Approximately 47 tons
• Crew: 5 personnel

Power and Mobility

• Power-to-weight ratio: Approx. 21 hp/ton
• Suspension: 12 hydropneumatic suspension units
• Maximum road speed: 65 km/h

Performance and Firepower

• Main gun: 155 mm / 52 caliber
• Rate of fire: 3 rounds in 15 seconds
• Range:
  • M107: ~18 km
  • M549A1 RAP: ~30 km
  • ERFB/BB: Up to 40 km

Sensors and Fire Control

• ADOP-2000 Fire Support Automation System
• Digital ballistic computer
• External sensor and forward observer data integration
• Ammunition and Loading
• NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition compatibility
• Automatic ammunition loading system
• Onboard ammunition capacity: 48 rounds
• Full reload in ~20 minutes using the Poyraz resupply vehicle

Command, Control, and Data Links

• ASELSAN 9600-series tactical communication systems
• Digital data exchange with higher command levels

(Encryption and detailed protocols are not publicly disclosed.)

Logistics and Operation

• Tracked configuration for high off-road mobility
• Designed for sustained, long-duration operations
• Maintenance and upgrades conducted domestically

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the T-155 Firtina used for?

• Firtina provides long-range, high-volume artillery fire support to maneuver units, primarily at brigade and corps level.

What is its maximum range?

• Depending on ammunition type, its range varies between 18 km and 40 km, with ERFB/BB rounds offering the maximum reach.

What types of targets can it engage?

• Enemy artillery, fortified positions, logistics areas, troop concentrations, and time-sensitive high-value targets.

How many targets can it engage simultaneously?

• A single howitzer can rapidly engage sequential targets; at battery level, simultaneous multi-target engagements are possible.

Is it mobile or fixed?

• It is fully mobile, tracked, and optimized for shoot-and-scoot operations.

How does it compare to its peers?

• In the same class as systems like the K9 Thunder, Firtina stands out through its tailored integration with Turkish doctrine and indigenous command-and-control systems.

Sources

• Official MKE product information and brochures
• Public disclosures by the Turkish Land Forces
• ASELSAN ADOP-2000 system documentation
• Defense industry exhibition materials and technical presentations