Paraguay’s Army is set to introduce 105 mm self-propelled artillery for the first time, following a planned equipment transfer from Brazil, according to statements broadcast by Paraguayan public radio Nacional AM. Army Commander General Manuel Rodríguez confirmed that Brazil intends to donate six M108 tracked self-propelled howitzers, a move that would significantly reshape Paraguay’s land-based fire support capabilities. The planned transfer highlights deepening defense cooperation between the two South American neighbors, with Brazil using surplus platforms to help accelerate regional military modernization at minimal acquisition cost.
The M108 self-propelled howitzer, originally developed in the United States during the early 1960s, mounts a turreted 105 mm gun on a tracked chassis closely related to the 155 mm M109 family. Designed for mobile indirect fire support, the system allows rapid repositioning after firing, enhancing survivability compared to towed artillery. Typically operated by a five-person crew, the M108 carries onboard ammunition and is equipped with a roof-mounted heavy machine gun for self-defense. While its effective firing range of approximately 11–12 kilometers is modest by modern standards, the platform offers sufficient mobility and responsiveness for tactical fire support missions.
Brazil was one of the largest international operators of the M108, acquiring 72 vehicles from U.S. Army stocks in the early 1970s and sustaining them through local modernization programs, including engine upgrades in the 1980s. However, the aging platform and limitations of the 105 mm caliber led to its retirement between 2017 and 2018, when Brazil transitioned to 155 mm M109A5+ self-propelled howitzers. Previous transfers of surplus M108s, including a donation to Uruguay, demonstrate how such systems can enable smaller armies to establish self-propelled artillery units and shift toward more mobile, survivable fire-support doctrines.
