This is the Peoples’ Liberation Army’s standard heavy howitzer. It entered service in the early-1980s and was present in large numbers for service in Korea and against the Russians. The main armament cannon is based on the Chinese 152-mm Towed Type 66 mounted on an entirely new chassis similar to the Russian 152-mm SP Gun-Howitzer 2S3, The layout of the Type 83 follows the general pattern of the American M109, with six roadwheel pairs, the engine and drive sprocket at the front, and the large square turret at the rear. The gun is capable of firing standard 152mm howitzer rounds as well as a new RAP round known as the MP-152. The fire control system is operated from a panel. Direct fire sights are provided as well as infrared night sights. There are extensive storage points around the hull and turret. The crew communicates with each other using the Type 803 intercom system.
