Indonesian Army Shows Interest in Acquiring Serbia’s NORA-B52 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer
The Indonesian National Army (TNI-AD) has shown interest in the Serbian-made NORA-B52 155mm mobile howitzer, following the recent signing of a defense cooperation agreement between Indonesia and Serbia.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Indonesian Army has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring the Serbian-made NORA-B52 155mm self-propelled howitzer to complement its existing fleet of CAESAR mobile artillery systems.
The NORA-B52, developed by Yugoimport SDPR, a state-owned Serbian defense company, has garnered attention following the recent signing of a defense cooperation agreement between Indonesia and Serbia.
This agreement is also expected to pave the way for Indonesia to procure several other defense systems from Serbian defense firms, known for their high-quality military products.
However, reports from Indonesia have yet to disclose the number of NORA-B52 units the country may acquire.
Currently, Indonesia operates 55 units of the CAESAR 155mm self-propelled howitzer, a French-made system developed by Nexter Systems.
These artillery units are deployed within the Satuan Artileri Medan (Armed) division to bolster combat capabilities.
The CAESAR system, which uses a 155mm howitzer, can engage targets up to 39 km away.
In comparison, the Serbian NORA-B52 155mm howitzer offers enhanced capabilities.
Mounted on an 8×8 wheeled chassis for high mobility, it boasts a range of 40–50 km depending on the type of ammunition used.
Designed for rapid mobility, the system can quickly relocate after firing a few rounds to avoid enemy detection and counterattacks.
The NORA-B52 also features modern fire control systems, including GPS navigation and a ballistic computer, to ensure precise targeting.
Its primary roles include supporting field artillery operations by destroying enemy targets, providing protective fire, and dominating the battlefield.
Key advantages of the NORA-B52 include its rapid mobility and deployment, extended firing range, and adaptability to challenging terrains due to its wheeled platform.
Several countries, including Cyprus, Algeria, Kenya, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, have already recognized the NORA-B52’s capabilities and integrated it into their armed forces.
If Indonesia’s interest materializes, the NORA-B52 155mm self-propelled howitzer will become a critical component of the country’s artillery modernization program, significantly enhancing its long-range firepower and operational flexibility in challenging environments. – DSA
