August 1987: Launch of the G6 SP gun. One of the 1st G6 prototypes on exercise during the SADF's 75th anneversary in 1987. 3 prototypes served against the large conventional Cuban/Fapla forces at the battles for Cuito Cualevale in 1978-88.
The G5 and G6 artillery systems astonished the world when launched in 1884 and 1987 respectively. Being very advanced, with the longest range in the world (40km's then, now (2005) 70km's with assegaai ammunition.) Based on the basebleed principle pioneered by the contraverial Dr Gerald Bull.
The SADF opted for wheeled vehicles in the late 1970's, due to the long distances in Africa, required mobility, ease of maintenance, unsuitablility of the terrain for tracked vehilces. Now, many Forces in the world are following the wheeled option as well. The writer was observed "mobility trials" at the school of Artillery during 1978, during the prototype stages of the G5 and Valkiri artillery systems. Prototypes of the G5 and Valkiri was often seen secretly moving out of Camp under canvas covers, and returning after dark. Our Sgt Mayor Venter did some of the field trials with the G5 prototype, and once returned to the School of Artilley with a G5 of which he had to cut off all the hydraulic lines, as the hydraulic systems seized up and could not be moved.
Early conceptial mobility trials for the G6 was also seen with a Ratel ICV and Extra Heavy Earthmoving Truck undergoing mobility trials on the artillery range, under a program of a Proffesor at the University of Potchefstroom. Later, while working for the Laboratory of Advanced Engineering at the University of Pretoria, further literature on the topic was seen. |
