Self-propelled howitzers head to Germany for firing exercise
The Royal Netherlands Army (RNLA) is taking part in the regular SOB/SOMS firing exercises in Bergen-Hohne and Munster-Süd with 16 self-propelled howitzers. The first 6 pieces of this mobile 155mm artillery system were loaded onto a train bound for Germany today, with another train departing next week. The artillery will conduct their exercise from 14 - 24 March.
Fire Support Command carries out this exercise in Germany multiple times a year. This event is not connected to the war in Ukraine. The German training areas offer considerably more possibilities than sites in the Netherlands because of their size.
The deteriorating security situation has, however, resulted in increased attention for large-scale conflict in a general sense. By conducting these exercises, units works to increase their readiness. A number of Fire Support Command units have been assigned to the NATO Response Force. This current exercise, however, is not a contribution to this rapid reaction force.
Fire support from the ground
Fire Support Command provides all ground-based fire support within the Netherlands Defence organisation. Their mobile 155mm self-propelled howitzers are the heaviest weapon the Royal Netherlands Army has. This unit also uses 120mm mortars. Fire Support Command is responsible for the entire fire support chain. This includes selecting, locating and engaging targets.