PLL05 120 MM SELF-PROPELLED MORTAR SYSTEM

The PLL-05 is a modern Chinese wheeled self-propelled mortar. The first prototypes of the vehicle were created in the late 1990s, and in 2005 serial production started, which continues to this day. The car is likely powered by a single Deutz diesel engine BF8L 413F with 320 hp. It is armed with a single 120 mm mortar in a rotating turret and 1 machine gun QJC-88 cal. 12.7 mm. The PLL-05 is conceptually very similar to the Russian 2S23 self-propelled mortar or the Polish Raka. The PLL-05 vehicle is based on the hull and suspension of the WZ-551 armored personnel carrier. It also uses many of its components. The protection is provided by armor made of steel plates that protects against small-caliber firearms with a caliber of up to 12.7 mm and against artillery fragments. The vehicle is also capable of negotiating water obstacles without any special preparation. The maximum rate of fire of the mortar is estimated at 8-10 rounds per minute, with the constant rate of fire being approximately 4-6 shots per minute. The maximum range of an effective shot is 9 kilometers. The electronic equipment of the car, especially the fire control systems fitted as standard, is a question mark. The PLL-05 vehicles are probably part of the equipment of Chinese motorized infantry units.