The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) recently completed the first operational model of the Artillery Corps’ groundbreaking new cannon, the “Roem” (Hebrew for “thunderous”). Developed by Elbit Systems, this state-of-the-art cannon represents a significant leap forward in military technology, boasting unprecedented capabilities that promise to redefine battlefield artillery.
Unparalleled Automation and Performance
The “Roem” stands as the world’s first cannon capable of fully automatic firing without human intervention. This innovative system streamlines its use, reduces the personnel required for operation, and allows commanders to plan and execute fire more efficiently across wider sectors of the battlefield. The cannon can fire at least eight rounds per minute, a substantial improvement over previous iterations, thanks to its robotic reloading system, which also enhances troop safety during combat.
Enhanced Capabilities and Mobility
According to the IDF, the “Roem” significantly increases the rate of fire and enables targeting at longer ranges than current artillery systems. It offers independent and rapid movement on roads and boasts high mobility in various terrains. Initial tests demonstrated the cannon's ability to fire at targets up to 20 kilometers (12 miles) away, with the potential for even greater ranges in real-world scenarios.
The European variant of the “Roem” will feature different shells and a distinct geometrical structure, allowing it to engage targets up to 80 kilometers (50 miles) away. This adjustment may hint at efforts to align artillery capabilities with those of other major military powers, such as the Russian Army. Despite these structural differences, the technological and operational core of the cannon remains consistent across variants.
Strategic Impact and Operational Integration
The introduction of the “Roem” marks a significant milestone for the IDF’s Artillery Corps, heralding a new era of close cooperation with maneuvering divisions. Brig. Gen. Yair Natans, Chief Artillery Officer, emphasized the transformative impact of this new system: “The relevance and dominance of artillery fire are evident in warfare. We have taken yet another significant step towards integrating the ‘Roem’ into the diverse firepower capabilities wielded by corps commanders to assist maneuvering forces—close and lethal support that eliminates many enemies and protects soldiers in various arenas.”
The new artillery system is expected to enhance the IDF’s operational effectiveness, particularly in the context of recent conflicts. Since October 8th, the Artillery Corps has been actively engaged on two fronts: Gaza and the Northern Border. The introduction of the “Roem” is anticipated to improve response times to attacks, enabling the IDF to neutralize mobile launch sites before they can be relocated.
צה"ל מציג את ה"רועם" החדש: 8 פגזים בדקה, טווח אש של 40 ק"מ וגלגלים במקום זחל#המהדורה_המרכזית@BittonRosen @MaggieTabibi @sharongal pic.twitter.com/bbvhWLCxrG
— עכשיו 14 (@Now14Israel) July 26, 2023
International Collaboration and Future Deployment
Last year, Elbit Systems, in collaboration with German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, successfully conducted a live-fire demonstration of an automated 155mm L52 wheeled self-propelled howitzer. This event, held at the Shivta firing range in southern Israel, was attended by high-ranking officials from the armed forces of the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Hungary, underscoring the international interest and potential collaboration in this advanced artillery technology.
While no firm date has been set for the widespread deployment of the “Roem,” its development and testing represent a significant advancement in military technology, poised to save lives and enhance the IDF’s operational capabilities.
The #Israeli Ministry of Defense has published a video about the new 155/52 caliber #Elbit #Roem wheeled howitzer, which is beginning to enter the #IDF artillery forces, and is already in demand on the international arms market. pic.twitter.com/zJn5M8eAsG
— Dana Levi דנה🇮🇱🇺🇸🇬🇧 (@Danale) July 17, 2023
The “Roem” is part of a broader effort to reinforce all ground artillery systems, including rockets, missiles, and remotely piloted aircraft, ensuring that the IDF remains at the cutting edge of military innovation. As conflicts continue to evolve, the introduction of the “Roem” will undoubtedly play a crucial role in maintaining the IDF’s strategic superiority and protecting Israel's security interests.
