Meng's new Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer in 72nd scale

Meng's new PLZ05 155mm self-propelled howitzer in 72nd scale. We have art, CADs & the real thing in our preview...

Meng's new Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer in 72nd scale

Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer

Kit No #72-014

1/72nd scale

There are three marking choices in the box.

Release Date: January 2026

Product Link on the Meng Website

The subject: Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer.

The PLZ-05 is a modern Chinese 155 mm self-propelled howitzer designed to deliver long-range, high-precision artillery support for the People’s Liberation Army. Developed by Norinco in the 1990s and entering service around 2008, the PLZ-05 represents a significant leap from earlier systems like the Type 83 and PLZ-45. Mounted on a tracked chassis, it features a 52-calibre barrel capable of firing a variety of munitions, including laser-guided and rocket-assisted projectiles. With a maximum range of up to 50–60 kilometres depending on the shell type, the PLZ-05 is engineered for deep strike capability and rapid deployment across diverse terrain.

PLZ-05 155mm self-propelled howitzers attached to a brigade under the PLA 72nd Group Army rumble on a designated training field at an undisclosed desert area in north-west China during a training exercise in 2019

The vehicle is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine producing up to 800 horsepower, allowing speeds of up to 56 km/h and an operational range of 550 km. Its autoloading system enables a sustained rate of fire of 8–10 rounds per minute, with burst capabilities reaching four rounds in just 15 seconds. The turret offers 360-degree traverse, and the onboard fire control system integrates GPS and inertial navigation for accurate targeting. Secondary armament includes a roof-mounted QJC-88 12.7 mm machine gun for air defence and close protection, along with smoke grenade launchers for concealment.

Protection-wise, the PLZ-05 is built with high-hardness steel armour to withstand small arms fire and shell fragments. The crew of four operates within a compartment equipped with NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection and automatic fire suppression systems. Its design reflects lessons learned from both Western and Russian artillery systems, blending mobility, firepower, and survivability. As a cornerstone of China’s modern artillery forces, the PLZ-05 underscores the country’s commitment to fielding technologically advanced and strategically flexible ground combat assets.

The Kit: Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer in 72nd scale

MENG will release the "72-014 Chinese PLZ05 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer" plastic kit in 1/72 scale. The assembled size is approximately 152 mm in total length, 47 mm in total width, and 48 mm in total height. The kit includes high-definition waterslide decals.

This kit faithfully reproduces the powerful appearance of the Chinese PLZ05 155 mm self-propelled howitzer.

Modular design makes assembly easy and pays meticulous attention to detail.

Precisely reproduces the engine's heat shield cover and realistically recreates the texture of the dust cover.

The crew hatch can be opened or closed as desired.

The barrel can move up and down.

The link & length style tracks are designed for easy assembly.

It can be combined with other products in the same scale, such as the Chinese ZTQ15 light tank (sold separately.) Another kit is planned in this series from this hint...

You can see more info on this kit and others from Meng on the Meng Models website...