The ATMOS is wheeled self-propelled howitzer truck, with on the rear part a Soltam Systems 155mm/52 calibre towed TIG 2000 system. ATMOS has been developed by the Israeli Compnay Soltam Systems as a private venture. Now Soltam is a subdivision of the Israeli Company Elbit Systems. According to Soltam Systems, wheeled self-propelled guns are not only cheaper to procure than their more common tracked counterparts, but have lower life cycle costs and are easier to operate and maintain. In addition they also have greater strategic mobility as they do not have to rely on Heavy Equipment Transporters (HET) to be redeployed over extended distances as do their full-tracked counterparts. Based on SOLTAM Systems 60 years of battle proven systems, offering the advantage of high fire power, mobility and short response time, ATMOS is rapidly deployed and operable in all terain. The modular ATMOS system is available with different qualified in-service trucks and gun caliber. The need for light, long range, fast moving artillery has been recognized for the new battlefield environments, especially in countries, in which terrain conditions, roads, rails and bridges put limitations to weight and size of traditional self-propelled artillery systems. Artillery units are called upon to engage a variety of targets, gapping long ranges, expecting counter battery fire within minutes of commencing fire. Soltam Systems is offering a complete solution tailored to meet any customer requirements, this includes complete and advanced artillery force built-up of all levels of battery, battalion and brigade comprising weapon systems, integrated with the electronic suits, battle management system through FDC units, FO units with target acquisition (ground and UAV), meteorological stations, all connected via digital command, control and communication systems. The ATMOS Soltam is transportable in a C-130 Hercules medium transport aircraft and does not require heavy equipment transporters in order to be relocated over long distances. The artillery system is operated by a crew of four or six, including two loaders. In april 2011, Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ and TASE: ESLT) ("Elbit Systems") announced April 6, 2011, that it was awarded a contract to supply self-propelled artillery and accompanying systems to an African country. In October 2012, Elbit Systems announced a contract for the delivery of ATMOS 155mm autonomous artillery system to a Far Eastern country.