The new artillery represents a major leap in military technology and reflects Israel’s strategic commitment to maintaining a technological edge amid growing regional tensions. Hungary could also be among the first European customers for this new technology.
Israel is set to enhance its artillery capabilities with the forthcoming deployment of the Sigma self-propelled howitzer, developed by Israeli defence giant Elbit Systems. Five years after establishing development and production centres in northern Israel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is set to declare the next-generation system operational, with mass production expected to begin next year.
The Sigma stands out as a groundbreaking development in artillery, being fully automated and requiring only three crew members—an impressive reduction from the five or more personnel typically needed to operate conventional artillery systems. With a firing rate of 6-8 rounds per minute and exceptional accuracy, the Sigma can be deployed and ready to fire within just 60 seconds. Its advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities enable real-time calculations for optimal firing solutions, allowing rapid adaptation to dynamic battlefield conditions.
Elbit Systems has emphasized the rigorous testing process the Sigma has undergone, including a 10,000-kilometer endurance trial across various terrains. The tests confirmed the system’s durability, mobility, and effectiveness in diverse operational settings. Designed to replace older M109 units, the Sigma is expected to serve the IDF for the next five decades, providing a flexible, modern artillery solution that significantly bolsters Israel’s defence capabilities.
This development comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, including Israel’s ongoing operation in Gaza and growing threats from Iranian proxies such as Hezbollah in Lebanon. Israeli defence experts view the Sigma as a critical asset, particularly for its ability to deliver rapid, precise firepower across extensive areas, which could prove decisive in large-scale conflicts.
Hungary as a Potential Customer
Last year, Hungarian news website Neokohn reported that Germany’s Rheinmetall and Israel’s Elbit Systems had given a live-fire demonstration of the Sigma in Israel. The demonstration took place at a firing range in southern Israel in the presence of senior military officials from Britain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Hungary.
Although no sources have confirmed that the Hungarian Ministry of Defence has officially expressed interest in the Sigma system, this state-of-the-art technology could easily fit into Hungary’s ongoing force development and modernization programme.
A key factor in this potential collaboration could be the prominent German defence manufacturer Rheinmetall, which signed a cooperation agreement in 2022 with Elbit Systems to develop, manufacture, and market an automated European 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer system.
Rheinmetall has established close ties with Hungary in recent years, building several defence industrial production facilities in the form of joint ventures with Hungarian counterparts. Rheinmetall plays a pivotal role in facilitating technology transfer and integration in Hungary and could also provide the necessary support to integrate the Sigma into Hungary’s defence forces. Strengthening Hungary’s military assets with such state-of-the-art technology could also enhance its role within NATO.
Related articles:
