170-mm M1978 Koksan self-propelled gun

This North Korean self-propelled gun was first observed in the city of Koksan in 1978, leading to its designation as the M1978 Koksan. It was first publicly displayed in 1985.

The M1978 is based on a modified Chinese Type 59 tank chassis with the turret removed and plated over. The open-mounted 170-mm gun is fitted on top of the chassis at the very back. The driver of the vehicle is seated on the left side at the front, under full armor protection.

Two large spades are fitted to...