BAE Systems has signed a teaming agreement with Emirates Defense Technology (EDT) to pursue opportunities for the towed M777 155mm Lightweight Howitzer in the UAE and further explore the development of a self-propelled 155mm artillery system.
“This agreement affirms our desire for an enduring industrial partnership in the UAE,” said Stephen Luk, head of campaign management at BAE Systems. “The M777’s credentials are unmatched by any other 155mm lightweight howitzer. It would provide the UAE Armed Forces with a high quality howitzer that is easy to use and reliable in combat.”
This teaming agreement also offers a platform for BAE Systems and EDT to continue developing the novel 155mm self-propelled artillery concept, which integrates the M777 with EDT’s indigenous Enigma 8×8 Armored Modular Fighting Vehicle.
“EDT is delighted to collaborate with BAE Systems in the UAE for the M777 lightweight howitzer and its vehicle integration programs,” said Colin Rothwell, Group CFO of EDT. “This agreement reinforces EDT’s commitment to partner with the world’s leading military companies to provide the most up to date and proven equipment, technology, and solutions to our clients.”
At half the weight of other 155mm towed howitzers, the M777 provides a rapid reaction capability and a proven pedigree that delivers decisive firepower when needed most in sustained combat conditions. With 1,090 M777s in service with ground forces in the United States, Canada, and Australia, the M777 is the only battle-proven 155mm lightweight howitzer in the world. It will remain at the forefront of artillery technology well into the future through the use of technical insertions, long-range precision guided munition developments, and flexible mobility options.
The Enigma program aims to provide the UAE Land Forces with a world-leading family of vehicles based on a common 8×8 chassis. In this context, the M777 self-propelled artillery system would provide the mobile indirect fire variant with fire-and-move and precision attack capabilities.
BAE Systems and EDT first unveiled a concept model of the M777 integrated onto the Enigma vehicle during the IDEX defense exhibition in February 2015.
(Source: BAE Systems; issued 09.05.2016)