120mm WZ551 SP Mortar:
Heavy Mortars
120mm SP Mortar on WZ551 Chassis
Recently the PLA revealed a new self-propelled mortar variant of its ubiquitous WZ551 APC.  On the center of the roof is mounted a turret that appears very similar to that used on the russian 2S23 8x8 Nona SPM with 120mm 2A60 mortar.   The armament, however, is reported to be similar to the new russian 2A31 Vena SPM, with a longer 120mm 2A80 mortar.  Secondary armament is a 12.7mm W-85 AAMG and likely includes a 7.62mm Type 67T coaxial MG.

The 2A60 can fire HE to a range of 8,850m and a RAP-HE round to 12,850m, as well as standard illumination, smoke, and FASCAM ammunition.   Perhaps most intriguing is the system's advanced direct-fire capabilities, with 120mm HEAT and laser-guided projectiles.  The new 2A80 mortar,  which appears to be mounted on this Norinco system,  also fires a new family of longer-range projectiles.

Should this system see widespread service in the PLA it will tremendously enhance the firepower of PLA motorized units, both filling in for standard mortars and providing a heavy direct-support capability.

-Desperado 6
Russian 2S23 Nona w/2A60 120mm Mortar
Russian 2S31 Vena  w/2A80 120mm Mortar
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