The DONAR 10x10 - next-generation 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer

 The DONAR 10x10 is a next-generation 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer (SPH) field artillery system. This weapon system integrates an Artillery Gun Module (AGM) manufactured by German defense manufacturer KNDS with a Piranha IV 10x10 Heavy Mission Carrier armored vehicle chassis manufactured by General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS).

Key Characteristics & Features: This advanced artillery system is specifically designed to meet the needs of the modern battlefield, emphasizing the following advantages:

Full Automation: The AGM turret operates autonomously and automatically, from target calculation to ammunition loading.

Minimum Crew: Thanks to automated technology, this combat vehicle requires only a two-person crew to operate.

Firing on the Move: The DONAR 10x10 is one of the few artillery systems in the world capable of firing on the move.

MRSI Feature: Has Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) capability, which fires multiple projectiles with different trajectories to hit the target simultaneously.

Shoot-and-Scoot Method: Capable of firing precisely, then immediately relocating within seconds to avoid enemy counter-battery attacks.

Extensive Range: Uses a standard NATO L52 155 mm cannon capable of reaching targets up to 40 kilometers away, depending on the type of ammunition used.

High Mobility: The use of a 10x10 wheeled chassis provides high stability in rough terrain and significantly faster redeployment speeds than tracked artillery.

World's First User: This system officially gained global attention after the Swiss Army announced the purchase of 32 DONAR 10x10 units. The procurement contract was signed to modernize the Swiss military fleet and replace their legacy M109 artillery tanks, which are nearly 50 years old.

Development

2004: Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (now KNDS) begins developing a self-propelled turret technology called the Artillery Gun Module (AGM).

2008: An early prototype of the DONAR system is first publicly unveiled, but at the time it was still based on the ASCOD tank battle tank chassis.

2022: The Swiss government launches a formal competition to find a replacement for its M109 artillery tank. KNDS partners with GDELS-Mowag to pair the AGM turret with the Piranha IV 10x10 Heavy Mission Carrier's wheeled chassis.

November 2024: After a series of mobility and firing trials, the integrated Piranha IV + AGM (DONAR 10x10) design is officially selected by the Swiss Army.

Contract Signing & Production Phase (2026–2031+)

June 2026: Swiss defense procurement agency, armasuisse, officially signs a multi-million-euro full purchase contract for 32 DONAR 10x10 systems.

2027: The manufacturer is expected to complete one prototype with a final configuration that meets Swiss military specifications.

2028: The prototype will enter a full qualification testing phase and intensive troop training.

2031: Mass production and first deliveries of the DONAR 10x10 system are scheduled to officially begin, strengthening Switzerland's air-to-ground defense.