Spain is embarking on a comprehensive artillery upgrade, planning to acquire more than 200 self-propelled howitzers as part of a strategic initiative to phase out its outdated M109 artillery fleet.
This extensive modernization project, exceeding €3 billion ($3.51 billion), will be executed through two separate but interconnected acquisition programs. The first focuses on tracked systems, with the government planning to purchase 128 units for both the army and the marine infantry. Valued at €1.82 billion ($2.12 billion), this subprogram emphasizes automation, rapid response capability, and minimal crew requirements. Technical requirements include a 47 to 52 caliber barrel and a firing range of over 40 kilometers (25 miles) using base-bleed munitions.
The tracked artillery purchase will also deliver extensive support infrastructure: 128 dedicated ammunition carriers, 21 recovery vehicles, 48 army command vehicles, 11 marine infantry command units, and 7 optional maintenance vehicles.
Simultaneously, under the second subprogram, Spain will acquire 86 wheeled howitzers—likely in 8×8 or 10×10 configurations—dedicated to the army. Matching ammunition carriers (86), 14 recovery vehicles, and 7 optional maintenance vehicles are also included, with this phase expected to cost €1.18 billion ($1.38 billion).
