India will conduct extensive field trials of the Bofors FH77BD self-propelled 6x6 artillery system next May. Indian Army generals have said they want at least 300 of the systems. The FH77BD is not an armored-and-tracked artillery system like the M109, but a truck with an open gun mount and only light armor. It is, however, much less expensive than an armored howitzer and cheaper to operate.--Stephen V Cole
