M109A7

The M109A7 Paladin is a United States Army self-propelled 155 mm howitzer and the modernized successor to the M109A6 Paladin. It was developed under the Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) program to recapitalize the Army’s self-propelled howitzer fleet and to reduce maintenance and logistics requirements by adopting common components with other vehicles. Production and fielding began in the late 2010s, with deployment in the early 2020s.

The M109A7 is built around a new hull and chassis based on the Bradley Fighting Vehicle platform, incorporating a refreshed suspension, enhanced protection, and a digital fire-control system. The design emphasizes commonality with other Army vehicles to simplify maintenance and supply. The gun system is a modernized 155 mm howitzer mounted on a new Paladin turret, and the vehicle includes an automated ammunition handling capability to improve rate of fire while reducing crew workload. The crew consists of four soldiers: a driver, commander, gunner, and loader.

Armament and fire control are centered on a 155 mm howitzer capable of firing standard NATO ammunition, as well as rocket-assisted and precision-guided rounds. The M109A7 employs contemporary digital fire-control, navigation, and communications systems, enabling rapid target acquisition, data sharing, and more efficient fires on the move.

Operational history and status: The M109A7 has entered service with the U.S. Army as part of broader fleet modernization efforts. It is intended to replace aging M109A6 Paladins in active units and to provide improved range, accuracy, and battlefield integration.