Intro
Discover the versatile 105mm cannon, a widely used artillery piece by military forces worldwide. Explore the 5 main types, including towed, self-propelled, and tank-mounted variants, and learn about their characteristics, applications, and effectiveness on the battlefield. From World War II to modern conflicts, uncover the evolution and impact of these powerful weapons.
The 105 mm cannon is a versatile and widely used artillery piece employed by military forces around the world. Its relatively small size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for various applications, from infantry support to anti-tank warfare. Over the years, several types of 105 mm cannons have been developed, each with its unique characteristics and capabilities.
In this article, we will explore five types of 105 mm cannons used by military forces, highlighting their features, advantages, and uses.
Understanding the 105 mm Cannon
The 105 mm cannon is a type of field artillery that has been in use since the early 20th century. Its 105 mm caliber (4.13 inches) allows it to fire a variety of ammunition, including high-explosive shells, armor-piercing rounds, and smoke shells. The cannon's compact size and relatively lightweight design make it easy to transport and deploy in various environments.
Types of 105 mm Cannons
1. M101 105 mm Howitzer
M101 105 mm Howitzer
The M101 105 mm Howitzer is a towed artillery piece developed by the United States in the 1920s. It features a maximum range of approximately 11 km (6.8 miles) and can fire up to 4 rounds per minute. The M101 has been widely used by the US military and has also been exported to several countries.
2. L118 105 mm Light Gun
L118 105 mm Light Gun
The L118 105 mm Light Gun is a lightweight, towed artillery piece developed by the United Kingdom in the 1970s. It features a maximum range of approximately 17 km (10.6 miles) and can fire up to 6 rounds per minute. The L118 is designed for airborne and amphibious operations, making it an ideal choice for rapid-deployment forces.
3. 105 mm M3 Gun
105 mm M3 Gun
The 105 mm M3 Gun is a towed anti-tank gun developed by the United States during World War II. It features a maximum range of approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) and can fire up to 4 rounds per minute. The M3 was used extensively during World War II and the Korean War.
4. Oerlikon 105 mm Gun
Oerlikon 105 mm Gun
The Oerlikon 105 mm Gun is a Swiss-designed, towed anti-aircraft gun that can also be used as a field artillery piece. It features a maximum range of approximately 17 km (10.6 miles) and can fire up to 15 rounds per minute. The Oerlikon 105 mm Gun is used by several countries, including Switzerland, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
5. GIAT LG1 105 mm Gun
GIAT LG1 105 mm Gun
The GIAT LG1 105 mm Gun is a French-designed, towed artillery piece developed in the 1970s. It features a maximum range of approximately 18 km (11.2 miles) and can fire up to 12 rounds per minute. The GIAT LG1 is used by several countries, including France, Belgium, and Australia.
Gallery of 105 mm Cannons
105 mm Cannons Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of a 105 mm cannon?
+The primary purpose of a 105 mm cannon is to provide indirect fire support to infantry units, as well as to engage enemy armor and fortifications.
What is the maximum range of a 105 mm cannon?
+The maximum range of a 105 mm cannon varies depending on the specific model and type of ammunition used, but it can range from approximately 11 km (6.8 miles) to 18 km (11.2 miles).
What are some common types of 105 mm cannons?
+Some common types of 105 mm cannons include the M101 105 mm Howitzer, L118 105 mm Light Gun, 105 mm M3 Gun, Oerlikon 105 mm Gun, and GIAT LG1 105 mm Gun.
What is the difference between a 105 mm cannon and a 155 mm cannon?
+The main difference between a 105 mm cannon and a 155 mm cannon is the size and range of the gun. A 155 mm cannon is larger and has a longer range than a 105 mm cannon, but it is also heavier and more difficult to transport.
Are 105 mm cannons still used by modern military forces?
+Yes, 105 mm cannons are still used by some modern military forces, particularly for training and ceremonial purposes. However, they have largely been replaced by more modern and capable artillery systems.
Final Thoughts
The 105 mm cannon is a versatile and widely used artillery piece that has played a significant role in military conflicts throughout history. Its relatively small size and lightweight design make it an ideal choice for various applications, from infantry support to anti-tank warfare. While it has largely been replaced by more modern and capable artillery systems, the 105 mm cannon remains an important part of military history and heritage.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the 105 mm cannon and its various types. If you have any further questions or would like to share your thoughts on this topic, please feel free to comment below.