TAM VCA

155-mm self-propelled howitzer



Only a small number of the TAM VCA self-propelled artillery systems was built

Entered service late 1990s
Crew 5 men
Dimensions and weight
Weight ?
Length (gun forward) ?
Hull length ?
Width ?
Height ?
Armament
Main gun 155-mm
Barrel length 39 calibers
Machine guns 1 x 7.62-mm
Projectile weight 43.5 kg
Maximum firing range 24.7 - 30 km
Maximum rate of fire 6 rpm
Elevation range - 5 to + 70 degrees
Traverse range 360 degrees
Ammunition load
Main gun 30 rounds
Machine guns 1 000 - 2000 rounds
Mobility
Engine MTU MB-833 Ka500 diesel
Engine power 720 hp
Maximum road speed 70 km/h
Range 550 km
Maneuverability
Gradient 60%
Side slope 30%
Vertical step 0.9 m
Trench 2.5 m
Fording 1.4 m


The VCA (Vehiculo de Combate de Artilleria) self-propelled howitzer was developed by TAMSE to meet operational requirements of the Argentinean Army for a possible replacement of the French F3 self-propelled guns. The VCA is fitted with Italian Palmaria turret, mounted on the lengthened TAM light tank chassis. A total of 20 Palmaria turrets developed by Oto Melara were exported to Argentina. Some sources claim that at least 15 TAM VCA self-propelled systems were in service by the late 1990s. This turret is no longer produced, so it is unlikely that more vehicles will be built. The TAM VCA is in service only with Argentina.

The VCA is completed with 155-mm / L39 howitzer and fitted with automatic projectile loading system. Charges are loaded manually. The VCA fires all standard NATO 155-mm ammunition, including HE-FRAG, smoke or illumination projectiles. Maximum range of fire is 24.7 km with ordinary HE-FRAG projectile and 30 km with rocket-assisted. A total of 30 rounds are carried.

Secondary armament consists of a roof-mounted 7.62-mm or 12.7-mm machine gun. Vehicle is also fitted with four smoke grenade dischargers.

The TAM VCA has a welded aluminum turret. Vehicle provides armor protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters.

Vehicle has a crew of five, including commander, gunner, charge handler, magazine operator and driver.

The TAM VCA uses lengthened TAM light tank chassis. It is powered by the MTU MB-833 Ka500 diesel engine, developing 720 hp. Vehicle is fitted with auxiliary power unit, which powers all systems, when the main engine is turned off.