However, no purchase or donation deal between Chisinau and Jerusalem was reported.
Israeli engineers originally designed this artillery system for export. The Israeli Army is purchasing the more advanced SIGMA 155 from the same Elbit Systems.
The tactical and technical characteristics of the ATMOS SAU include several key aspects. The chassis used is a Tatra T815 VVN vehicle with an armored cab and 6×6 wheel arrangement. The 155mm Soltam ATHOS 2052 gun is mounted on this chassis.
The range of the system with a 52L barrel length gun varies depending on the type of ammunition: when using a conventional projectile, it is 30 kilometers, and active-jet projectiles can hit targets at a distance of up to 41 kilometers. The howitzer’s rate of fire ranges from 4 to 9 rounds per minute, with a transportable ammunition complement of 32 rounds.
The system is equipped with modern guidance and fire control equipment, including an onboard computer, radar for measuring the projectile’s initial velocity, and satellite and inertial guidance systems.
The cost of the ATMOS 2000 varies considerably depending on the specific contract, but examples include the Philippines’ purchase of 12 units for $47.2 million (approximately $3.9 million per unit) and Colombia’s order of 18 howitzers for $101.7 million (approximately $5.65 million per unit). There are additional costs associated with the systems, such as training, maintenance, and ammunition.
