The AS90 is a UK built 155mmSPG built to replace the then inservice Abbot SPG. Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering Unit proposed a new design turret for the NATO SPG-70 project that was under consideration. The US offered remanufactured M-109 Palladin SPG's but the UK interest veered towards the SPG-70 project. This project later stalled due to conflicting interests from the various NATO armies. VSEL resumed a project for the gun turret using an 155mm 39 calibre barrel which used standard NATO munitions. This turret peaked the interest of the UK military and this resulted in VSEL manufacturing two chassis prototypes using the turret. Although after much testing the UK MOD decided it would be more prudent to design a new chassis sytem rather than using a modified existing system to carry the turret. In 1989 VSEL became the sole tenderer for what is now the AS90 Braveheart SPG.
Construction commenced with an order for 179 units which were completed by 1996. In the meantime VSEL became part of BAe Systems and upgrades to firing systems, air filtration, mechanical upgrades and a change in the gun barrel length to 52 calibres came about based on experience and a change in requirements.
The AS 90 has served in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia as well as Bosnia 1996, Gulf war 1 and Gulf war 2.
The AS90 is powered by a Cummins VTA660T v8 diesel. The engine produces 660HP@2800rpm. The vehicle weighs in at 42tonnes, carries approx750L internal fuel allowing for a radius of action of around 160klm.
And now some pictures;
I'll be fitting an RB Models gun barrel and possibly Bronco workable tracks but if I can get a metal set I'll opt for those instead.
