The Turkish Army has taken delivery of its first six “Firtina” (Storm) next-generation self-propelled howitzers.
A ceremony was held in northwestern Turkey to mark the delivery, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and defense officials in attendance.
The 155-millimeter weapon system is expected to enhance the country’s deterrence and mobility amid increasing security threats in the region.
It also reportedly provided a “great fire advantage” to the Turkish military during counter-terrorism operations.
“I congratulate our engineers, technicians, and workers who produced the howitzers and congratulate them for their success,” Erdogan remarked.
The Turkish government plans to order 140 Storm howitzers for its armed forces.
Edge Over Previous Models
According to Erdogan, the upgraded Storm howitzers boast many advantages compared to other models in the country’s inventory.
He mentioned the weapon’s increased survivability and firepower, making it more lethal on the battlefield.
The system features next-generation fire control, automatic ammunition loading, and field vision.
Elements such as air-conditioning, remote-controlled weapons, an updated suspension, and next-generation auxiliary power have also been added.
“With all these systems that add strength to the power of our storm howitzers, we also reduce our foreign dependency. We will complete it within the year,” Erdogan said.
Additional Features
The T-155 Storm is a Turkish variant of South Korea’s K9 Thunder 155-mm self-propelled howitzer.
It is equipped with an automatic fire-control system and has a maximum rate of fire of six rounds per minute.
The howitzer is fitted with domestic fire control and communication systems compatible with NATO standards.
Its reported maximum firing range is 40 kilometers (25 miles).
In 2025, locally-made engines and transmissions will be integrated into the Storm.
