IDF uses Ro'em self-propelled howitzer artillery for first time in southern Lebanon
The firing was declared an operational success and even served as a basis for developing new artillery fire responses while fighting, the military wrote in a press release.
By Jerusalem Post Staff, April 17, 2026
https://www.jpost.com/defense-and-tech/article-893333
The IDF has operated its domestically produced Ro'em self-propelled howitzer for the first time, using it in an operation in southern Lebanon, the military announced on Thursday.
The Ro'em was used to fire at several Hezbollah anti-tank targets, which posed a threat to IDF forces. The firing was declared an operational success and even served as a basis for developing new artillery fire responses while fighting, the military wrote in a press release.
"This is a historic event," Lt. Col. B., head of the Ro'em branch in the IDF, said. "This translates to one thing: more firepower in less time, exposure, and risk to forces on the ground."
The Ro'em can be fired at a much higher rate than existing systems, at longer ranges, and even along multiple trajectories so that different shells hit the target simultaneously.
"It offers mobility, full automation, and the ability to operate as part of a maneuver deep into enemy territory. It shoots farther and more accurately, making it a true breakthrough," B said.
Greater rate of fire with fewer crew
The system features a fully automated turret, capable of handling ammunition selection, loading, gun laying, and firing without manual intervention. This automation reduces the crew to just three soldiers, a dramatic improvement over the seven-person crew required for the M109.
Its reduced crew size helps address IDF concerns, including manpower challenges such as injuries, and its high degree of automation allows for more flexible staffing.
The Ro’em is designed to operate as part of a fully networked battlefield, receiving fire missions directly from command-and-control systems and coordinating with sensors, drones, and other artillery units.
This connectivity shortens the sensor-to-shooter cycle and allows the IDF to deliver precise, timely fire support with minimal delay. The system’s automation also enables extremely fast shoot-and-scoot tactics, reducing exposure to enemy counter-battery fire.
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