The M52 self-propelled howitzer used the same chassis as the M44 155mm howitzer, which was in turn based on the M41 Walker Bulldog light tank. M52 was similar to M44, except that the weapon was installed in a large rotating turret instead of a barbette superstructure. Production of M52 started in 1951, but problems with the design prevented its immediate deployment. M52 was finally issued in 1955.
When the M52 was fitted with the AOSI-895-5 fuel injected engine, its designation was changed to M52A1, and its road range increased to about 100 miles (160km).
