ÜBERLINGEN, Germany, July 22 (UPI) -- A 155mm shell using special guidance systems successfully scored a direct hit on a 2X2 yard target from a distance of 20 miles.
The hit was scored at a firing range in South Africa during extensive testing of Oto Melara of Italy's Vulcano Guided Ammunition equipped with dual-mode capabilities -- GPS/Infrared and GPS semi-active laser receiver by Diehl Defense of Germany.
According to Diehl Defense, shells with only GPS terminal guidance fell short of the target. The Vulcano round with GPS and SAL terminal guidance directly hit the target plate, "demonstrating the absolute accuracy of the SAL and guidance systems."
"The amount of recorded data as well as the accuracy demonstrated by the ammunition with GPS guidance and SAL sensor for the terminal homing phase contributed to a very successful campaign," said the head of a delegation from the Italian Ministry Defense.
The testing -- witnessed by Italian, Dutch and German government representatives -- were performed under a German-Italian Program Agreement on 155mm guided ammunition.
The Italian Ministry of Defense is main sponsor of the Vulcano program. The German Ministry of Defense program contribution includes the SAL Terminal Homing System.
Vulcano guided ammunition with the dual sensors are expected to be produced beginning next year.
