Systems Supplied by China in 2014
The Algerian Ministry of National Defence released photographs and video on 22 May of a live fire exercise close to the Libyan border that proves the Army operates at least six PLZ45 155mm self-propelled howitzers. This marks the first public confirmation of the existence of the systems, believed to have been delivered by China in 2014.
Developed specifically for the export market, the PLZ45 features a maximum rate of fire of 5rpm (a sustained fire rate of 2) and an engagement range of 24-39km, depending on the type of ammunition in use. With a crew of five, the fire control system consists of an automatic laying system, optical sights, a gun orientation and navigation system and a GPS receiver.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute asserts that Algeria received 50 PLZ45s in 2014 and more recently has taken delivery of Chinese and Russian military equipment ranging from Su-30MKA combat aircraft to T-90 main battle tanks.