Elbit America Completes First Sigma NG 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer
Elbit America has announced the completion of the first production model of the Sigma NG 155 millimetre self-propelled howitzer at its facility in South Carolina, marking a significant step in advancing artillery modernization efforts within the United States.
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| Credit: Elbit America |
The Sigma NG itself is a 155mm/52-caliber self-propelled howitzer designed with a crew of three—commander, gunner, and driver—operating from an armored cab. It is mounted on a high-mobility 10x10 wheeled platform capable of rapid deployment, transitioning from travel to firing in less than one minute. The system incorporates a fully automated loading, laying, and firing mechanism, supported by an onboard magazine that holds 40 rounds including projectiles, propellants, and fuzes.
In terms of performance, the Sigma NG achieves a firing rate of more than eight rounds per minute, with the ability to reach up to nine. Its range exceeds 40 kilometers with standard ammunition, extends beyond 50 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles, and can reach up to 80 kilometers when using extended-range export munitions. The system is compatible with all NATO-qualified 155mm ammunition and is capable of firing at varied trajectories to deliver salvo effects.
Crew safety is prioritized through the armored cab, while hydraulic spades provide stabilization during firing operations. The platform is designed for rapid shoot-and-scoot tactics, minimizing exposure to counter-battery fire. Production of the NG variant emphasizes American manufacturing, with assembly in South Carolina and integration of U.S. components to meet domestic requirements.
The Sigma NG is derived from the Israeli Defense Forces’ SIGMA 155 “Ro’em” system, representing an evolution of that design tailored for U.S. use. Elbit America highlights the system’s automation and mobility as key differentiators in modern battlefield conditions.
Alongside the Sigma NG, Elbit continues to market the ATMOS, a truck-mounted howitzer that shares several advanced features such as automatic loading, inertial navigation, and rapid deployment capabilities. Unlike the Sigma NG, ATMOS has already seen extensive operational use and is often referenced as a benchmark system in comparisons.
The Sigma NG is seen as a potential successor to the long-serving M109 fleet, offering greater firepower, advanced automation, and improved operational efficiency. Its arrival coincides with a period in which several major defense companies are competing to deliver next-generation artillery solutions for the U.S. Army. Among the leading contenders are Leonardo DRS and KNDS with the wheeled CAESAR Mk II, Hanwha with its tracked K9 Thunder, Rheinmetall presenting the HX3 10x10 wheeled howitzer equipped with a fully automated turret and protected cab, BAE Systems advancing the M109-52, and General Dynamics offering the tracked NEMESIS.
The U.S. Army is currently engaged in efforts to identify a replacement for the M109 Paladin self-propelled howitzer, though no definitive successor has yet been chosen. In the meantime, the service has concentrated on upgrading the existing fleet while continuing to examine potential alternatives following the cancellation of earlier replacement initiatives.
Past attempts to replace the Paladin have encountered setbacks. Programs such as the Crusader and NLOS-C were discontinued, and the most recent effort, the Extended Range Cannon Artillery project, was halted in April 2024. The ERCA program faced significant technical challenges, most notably excessive barrel wear associated with the 58-caliber gun, which ultimately led to its termination.
In response to the ERCA cancellation, the Army launched new studies and issued a Request for Information to industry. The objective is to explore autonomous self-propelled artillery systems that can deliver improved range and mobility. This evaluation, known as the Self-Propelled Howitzer Modernization program, is structured as a competitive process and includes consideration of systems already available from both U.S. and international manufacturers.
While the search for a new platform continues, modernization of the Paladin remains a priority. The latest version in service, the M109A7, incorporates substantial upgrades over the M109A6. Enhancements include a redesigned chassis, improved engine and transmission, and advanced digital architecture, while the turret and primary weapon remain unchanged. These upgrades are intended to extend operational viability until a suitable replacement system is fielded.
By pursuing modernization alongside a competitive evaluation of new artillery solutions, the Army aims to balance immediate operational needs with long-term capability development. The outcome of the ongoing program will determine whether the Paladin’s eventual successor is a tracked or wheeled system, but for now the M109A7 continues to serve as the backbone of U.S. self-propelled artillery forces.
Written by Henry Wan
Henry Wan is an independent defense journalist with over 14 years of experience reporting on military affairs and security issues. He has covered defense strategies, military technology, and geopolitical developments with a consistent focus on accuracy, independence, and a comprehensive understanding of global security matters.