The M18E1 Ballista Self-Propelled Gun System is a next-generation self-propelled 155mm howitzer with a fully automated turret. The crew of 3 is seated in an armored capsule located at the front of the hull, similarly to the T-14 Armata. The turret controls are fully digital, and to use the gun, the the crew simply has to select a target, or, input coordinates and the computer will handle bringing the gun to bear upon a target and the elevation, and the gunner would input the desired fire method (burst, continuous, or manual). The gun can also be aimed manually. The Ballista will be configured for use with 155mm guided shells which will have both INS and GPS guidance systems. Should GPS be unavailable, the shells can utilize just INS guidance. The system can also interface with spotting units using either radar or infrared detection system to provide additional data for computing a firing solution, and the computer will account for possible target motion. Estimated maximum range is 60-70km with normal guided shells, and as much as 100km with rocket-boosted shells. The SPG's powerplant is the same 2000HP multifuel gas turbine used by the M16E1 Nostradamus MBT.

This and the M16E1 Nostradamus are currently my priority projects. I am unsure of which will be released first though.