Pakistan Deploys Chinese SH-15 Howitzers Near India Border

In a concerning development for regional security, the Pakistan Army has deployed several dozen Chinese-made SH-15 155mm self-propelled howitzers near the Indian border. These advanced artillery systems have been stationed roughly 80 kilometres from the Line of Control (LoC), significantly increasing the military threat level in an already tense environment.

This deployment follows a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. The incident led to a sharp rise in hostilities between India and Pakistan, with both sides taking tough diplomatic and military stances.

What is the SH-15 Howitzer?

The SH-15, known as the PCL-181 in Chinese military service, is one of the most modern artillery systems currently available to Pakistan. It was first unveiled in China in 2017 and later delivered to Pakistan under a 2019 deal for 236 units.

Mounted on a 6x6 Shaanxi military truck chassis with a protective armoured cabin for the crew, the SH-15 combines firepower, speed, and mobility. It is designed for rapid deployment and repositioning, giving it a tactical edge in mountain and border areas like those near the LoC.

Key Specifications and Capabilities

The SH-15 is armed with a powerful 155mm/52-calibre gun capable of firing various types of ammunition. Its capabilities include:

• Maximum Firing Range:

  • 20-30 kilometres with standard shells

  • Up to 53 kilometres using rocket-assisted projectiles

• Ammunition Compatibility:
  The system can fire both Chinese and NATO-standard ammunition, as well as precision-guided shells.

• Fire Control and Targeting:
  It uses an advanced computerized fire control system with GPS navigation, allowing for quick targeting adjustments and high firing accuracy.

• Firing Rate:
  Capable of firing 4 to 6 rounds per minute.

• Mobility:
  Thanks to its "shoot and scoot" ability, the SH-15 can quickly relocate after firing, reducing the risk of enemy counter-attacks.

This combination of long-range firepower, fast repositioning, and precision-guided capability significantly improves Pakistan’s artillery strength along the border.

Why This Deployment Matters

The arrival of SH-15 howitzers so close to the LoC is a serious military signal. From these positions, major Indian cities like Amritsar and sensitive military installations could theoretically be within artillery range. Such a move not only boosts Pakistan’s deterrence posture but also raises the possibility of rapid escalation if cross-border tensions worsen.

There are also reports suggesting that some of these howitzers have been placed in or near populated urban areas, a controversial tactic seen in other conflicts like the war in Ukraine. While officially unconfirmed, such actions could complicate retaliation options for India, due to the risk of civilian casualties.

A Strained Regional Situation

This military deployment comes during a period of deep mistrust between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. After the Pahalgam attack, India accused Pakistan of backing cross-border terrorism, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and stepped up military activity along the border.

Pakistan, in response, denied involvement, suspended the Simla Agreement, closed airspace to Indian flights, and warned of a possible Indian military strike. Sporadic clashes and artillery exchanges have since taken place along the LoC.

Pakistan’s deployment of SH-15 self-propelled howitzers near the India border marks a significant escalation in military preparedness. It highlights the growing risk of conflict in the region, especially given the ongoing disputes over Kashmir and the breakdown of diplomatic ties.

The presence of these modern artillery systems adds a new dimension to the already fragile peace along the India-Pakistan border. In the absence of effective dialogue and confidence-building measures, the danger of a serious military confrontation remains worryingly high.