[Coming Soon] Sholef platoon: Explosive power

📦 The Medium Trophy contains an Israeli platoon led by a Sholef SPH with an autoloader and HE-VT shells!

Sholef Platoon (Rank VI)

Historical note

In the 1980s, two prototypes of self-propelled artillery systems were developed on the Merkava Mk.1 chassis to replace the outdated imported vehicles in service with the IDF. The Sholef-1 appeared in the early 1980s, followed by the Sholef-2 with a long-barreled howitzer.

Both prototypes successfully passed tests and were used for combat patrols along the border with Lebanon. However, the choice of a new SPH for the Israel Defense Forces was made in favor of the American M109. In 1993, the Sholef project was closed.

Sholef

The leader of Israel's new Rank VI platoon is the SPH Sholef (lit. "Gunslinger"). This 155 mm self-propelled howitzer, also known as the Slammer, will be an excellent support vehicle with its powerful high-explosive shells, automatic loading system, and decent maneuverability!

The Sholef 155 mm gun has three types of HE shells, one of which is equipped with a proximity fuze (HE-VT) that can be used to target aircraft. In addition to the destructive power of huge HE shells, the machine is distinguished by its high firing rate – two automated drum-type loaders are responsible for loading the massive shells.

The Sholef SPH is built on a modified Merkava Mk.1 tank chassis, which gives it good maneuverability — commanders will always be able to take up a convenient position or follow a group of allied tanks. The Sholef is not well suited as a front-line fighter — its thin armor and compact crew and module layout are not designed for direct contact with enemy tanks. In addition, the vehicle itself is quite large, making it very easy to be hit.

Now it's time to meet the other vehicles in the new Israeli platoon!

AMX-13

French light tank AMX-13 in service with Israel. A maneuverable, dynamic tank with a branded oscillating turret with automatic loading and a 75 mm gun! Fast driving, fast firing!

AML-90

Another French tank, the wheeled AML-90. This vehicle is equipped with a 90 mm gun with excellent HEAT shells that can penetrate almost any enemy, including the most heavily armored ones!

ZSU-57-2

The Soviet twin-barreled SPAAG is used against ground targets almost more often than against air targets. Good dynamics, high rate of fire, and stunning damage for a SPAAG — it can take out many tanks!

*Platoon vehicle lineup, vehicle specifications and camouflages are still under development and may differ from those in this article.

The Sholef Platoon (Rank VI) will be available in War Thunder Mobile (WTM) in the Medium Trophy of the Tank Campaign with the start of the new Season.