D
Land ForcesChina

PCL-09

122mm self-propelled howitzerFielded 2010Pending verification
Land ForcesCHN
PCL-09
Photo: 中国新闻社 · CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Fact cardConfidence · Source
System
Type122mm self-propelled howitzer
Date of introduction2010
ProliferationAt least 4 countries
Crew5Med[1]
Emplacement time1.5 - 2.5 minutesMed[1]
Displacement time1.5 - 2.5 minutesMed[1]
Dimensions and weight
Length8 m26 ftMed[1]
Width3 m10 ftMed[1]
Height2.1 m7 ftMed[1]
Combat weight16.5 tMed[1]
Automotive performance
ChassisShaanxi 6x6 Military TruckMed[1]
EngineWei Chai WD615.77Med[1]
Engine power280 hpMed[1]
Cruising range86 km53 mi · 46 nmiMed[1]
Max road speed85 km/h53 mph · 46 ktMed[1]
Fording depth, without Preparation1.2 mMed[1]
Fording depth, with Preparation1.2 mMed[1]
Protection
Hull ArmorIt seems that this artillery system carries no defensive armament.Med[1]
Fire control
Computerized FCSYes, the PCL-09 is fitted with a computerized fire control system, navigation, positioning and targeting systems. It receives target information from artillery command post vehicle.Med[1]
Main Gun StabilizationLarge spades and stabilizing jacks are lowered to the ground prior to firing. These provide a more stable firing platform.Med[1]
Variants
CS/SH1Export version of the PCL-09.[1]
PLL-09Self-propelled howitzer, based on ZBL-09 8x8 armored personnel carrier chassis. It was adopted alongside the PCL-09. The PLL-09 is more mobile due to its chassis. It is capable of keeping pace with main battle tanks. Als[1]
Weapons and payload options · 3Confidence · Source
HE-FRAG122 mm ammunition
Med[1]
Quantity
40 rounds
Extended-range projectile122 mm ammunition
Med[1]
Quantity
40 rounds
Rocket assisted projectile122 mm ammunition
Med[1]
Quantity
40 rounds
Summary

The Chinese Army has followed the global shift and embraced the concept of a lighter, more mobile ground force. This is showcased by the adoption of such battlefield elements as the PCL-09, a 6x6 wheeled, self-propelled, artillery-carrying vehicle capable of delivering various warhead types at range.

Draft entry. Values come from the cited public sources and are awaiting editor verification.
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Operators
ChinaCambodiaLaosRwanda
Sources
  1. PCL-09 Chinese 122mm Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH), U.S. Army TRADOC G-2 Worldwide Equipment Guide (ODIN)
    Published/updated 2026-03-20 · Tier 1 · checked 2026-10-10
Change log
  • 2026-10-10 Entry created from the Worldwide Equipment Guide (ODIN), bulk import
  • 2026-10-10 Added photo (CC BY 4.0)