The Noricum GH N-45 is a 45-calibre 155mm howitzer, with a maximum range of 39.6km and a rate of fire of up to seven rounds per minute. The Noricum is available in its basic towed version A1, or as a self-propelled version with an auxiliary propulsion unit (APU) that is mounted on the forward end of the carriage. The APU, in turn, can be delivered in kit form for retrofitting onto towed GH N-45 A1s.
The Noricum GH N-45 may be towed at speeds of up to 105km/h and is capable of a 25km/h top speed under its own power. The GH N-45 APU model has a range of 130km and it can climb gradients of up to 40 per cent or, with chains, gradients of up to 50 per cent.
The Noricum GH N-45 fires all standard NATO ammunition; the barrel can be brought into firing position from travelling configuration in a few seconds, and the gun is ready to fire 40 seconds after deploying into firing position.
| The gun barrel can be brought into firing position within a few seconds |
Production of the Noricum GH N-45 A1 and the GH N-45 APU system components is undertaken in several locations in western Europe, with strict requirements concerning production skills to guarantee the system's accuracy. Programme management, final assembly and testing are the responsibility of Swiss personnel for every order contracted by Noricum Division's T&T Technology.
| The GHN-45 can be towed at speeds of up to 105 km/h |
Several hundred Noricum GH N-45 A1 and GH N-45 APU systems have been delivered to various countries over the years. During this time modifications also have been made to the basic design to improve reliability and field handling and to facilitate its smooth manufacture. Current research and development based on customer requests is aimed at providing new types of ammunition, including smart rounds (intelligent ammunition) and bomblets.
| The Noricum GHN-45 |
Noricum Division's T&T Technology offers a comprehensive after-sales support programme based on the adaptability of its general maintenance concept to suit individual customer requirements. Spares, support equipment and mobile workshops are available for customers who want to carry out maintenance independently. Alternatively, the Noricum Division guarantees turn-around periods measured in hours or days rather than weeks, where customers opt for maintenance supplied by a contractor. A combined maintenance plan, carried out by customers and contractors, is an option that has been elected by most governments that are operating Noricum GH N-45 A1 and GH N-45 APU systems.
