US-based Allison Transmission signs deal for Türkiye’s Firtina II howitzers
Firtina II howitzer. (AA Photo)
U.S.-based Allison Transmission has signed a multi-million dollar agreement for the supply of X1100-5A4 cross-drive transmissions for the next-generation T-155 Firtina II howitzer, marking the second phase of the contract with Türkiye’s licensed manufacturer, HST Otomotiv.
Expansion of transmission supply agreement
The contract, signed following the successful completion of phase 1, includes the delivery of 32 transmissions to Türkiye. The deliveries are scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026.
In 2024, under the first phase of the agreement, 10 transmissions were delivered for use in the Firtina II howitzers. In total, the Turkish Armed Forces plans to produce between 140 and 160 new-generation Firtina II howitzers, modernized versions of the widely used T-155 model.
Overcoming supply chain disruptions
The first delivery of the new-generation Firtina howitzer was made in 2021. However, due to supply chain issues related to engine and transmission procurement, no new deliveries took place until 2023.
The resumption of deliveries followed the improvement of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the United States.
With the latest contract, Allison Transmission aims to generate an additional annual revenue of $100 million from defense sector sales.
Firtina II howitzer: Upgraded features
The new-generation Firtina-II howitzer includes several technological advancements, such as:
- Electric drive turret and barrel control system
- Fully automatic ammunition loading system
- Gunpowder conditioning unit
- Advanced fire control system
- SARP remote-controlled weapon system
- Integrated climate control system
| Max. speed: 65 kilometers per hour | Range: 360 km |
| Side slope: 30% | Engine: 8 cylinder, 1000 horsepower / Electronic controlled engine |
| Gradebility: 60% | Transmission: Automatic transmission with 4 forward, 2 reverse gear |
| Fording depth: 150 centimeters | Gradability: 60% |
| Trench climbing: 280 centimeters | Fire Power: 155 mm main gun / 155 mm munition (in turret magazine 30 rounds, in hull 18 rounds) |
Allison Transmission’s role in defense systems
Allison Transmission’s X1100-5A4 is designed for heavy-tracked combat vehicles weighing between 45 and 63 tons. It features a cross-drive design integrating steering, braking, and gear-shifting into a single compact unit, with four forward and two reverse gears.
Dana Pittard, vice president of defense programs at Allison Transmission, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting military applications:
“We are honored to continue our collaboration with HST Otomotiv. Our cross-drive transmissions ensure superior performance in challenging terrain while enhancing soldier safety.”
