Artillery systems
Artillery systems are ranged weapons that launch munitions far beyond the range and power of infantry firearms. According to military science, artillery refers to crew-served large guns, howitzers, or mortars with a caliber higher than infantry or small arms.
While artillery refers more appropriately to massive gun-type weapons that fire projectiles along an unpowered trajectory using an explosive propellant charge, rocket launchers are nevertheless frequently classified as artillery since they serve a similar purpose to artillery projectiles.
Today’s artillery systems are more accurate, longer-ranged, and more mobile than ever before. This is due in part to the ongoing modernization of artillery systems around the world.
Different Types of Artillery Systems:
There are three main types of artillery systems distinguished by muzzle velocity and firing trajectory.
- Gun/Cannon
- Howitzer
- Mortar
Gun/Cannon:
An artillery piece with a high-caliber gun that fires projectiles using explosive chemical propellant is called a cannon. Cannon, big gun, howitzer, or mortar, as distinguished from a musket, rifle, or other small arm. Cannon artillery is one of many weapon systems capable of precision and near-precision munitions, its unique quality comes from responsiveness and quantity.
Modern cannons are complex mechanisms cast from high-grade steel and machined to exacting tolerances. They characteristically have rifled bores, though some contemporary tank-mounted and field artillery guns are smooth-bored.
Cannon artillery is one of the most powerful combat multipliers, providing unique capabilities for the Brigade Combat Team in Large Scale Ground Combat Operations. Canon artillery is an organic, responsive, round-the-clock, all-weather fire support capability that may be used in various offensive, defensive, and stability support actions.
Howitzer:
Howitzers are a kind of artillery weapon useful for indirect fire support in warfare because of their capacity to discharge rounds at steep angles. Howitzers are one of two primary types of field artillery. They were designed to fire shells at higher elevations over less range.
An artillery weapon that is situated in between a mortar and a cannon is the howitzer. Generally speaking, it is aimed higher than a cannon but lower than a mortar. Howitzers are an excellent addition to any battery formation together with other artillery pieces like mortars, rocket artillery, and long-barreled guns because of their long-range capabilities.
An overview of significant howitzer systems and their attributes is provided below. Some most Used Howitzers are listed as follows.
- M777 Howitzer
- Msta-S
- Wheeled Self-Propelled Howitzer (Rheinmetall)
- ARCHER
Types of Howitzers:
The Major types of Howitzers are classified as follows
- Self-propelled howitzer
- Pack howitzer
- Mountain howitzer
Self-propelled:
A tracked or wheeled vehicle is equipped with a self-propelled howitzer. It is frequently covered with armor of some kind, giving it the appearance of a tank. The primary purpose of this armor is to shield the crew from small arms fire and shrapnel, not against anti-armor weaponry.
Pack Howitzer:
Pack howitzers are comparatively light howitzers that may be readily disassembled into several smaller pieces that can be transported by mule or pack horse.
Mountain Howitzer:
A mountain howitzer is a relatively light howitzer designed for use in mountainous terrain. Most, but not all, mountain howitzers are also pack howitzers.
Mortar:
Mortar is a mobile, short-barreled, muzzle-loading artillery weapon that shoots explosive projectiles with high arcing trajectories, low velocity, and small ranges. Larger artillery pieces, which shoot at fast speeds, great ranges, and low, direct trajectories, stand in contrast to the weapon.
A present-day mortar consists of a lightweight tube that rests on a base plate and is supported by a bipod. To fire the weapon, one must drop a mortar shell against a firing pin inside the tube, setting off the propellant and propelling the shell toward the target.
Mortars up to 81 mm can be carried by infantry and used as a small-scale short-range substitute for artillery. Mortars have the advantages of portability because of their size, freedom of movement without the need for logistical support, and the capacity to be fired from a trench or defilade.
Mortar fire can be used against enemy positions such as trench lines, gun pits, and other locations not protected by overhead cover. A mortar can be easily fired on a position and be withdrawn by its operators before return fire can be directed. Insurgents have also used mortars against concentrations of civilians and civic leaders to cause terror and political instability.
Advancements in Artillery Systems:
Technological advancements have led to the development of highly mobile and versatile self-propelled artillery systems, reshaping their role on the modern battlefield.
- Smart Munitions Integration
- Automation & Digitalization
- Precision-Guided Munitions
- Network Integration
Smart Munitions Integration:
Using precision-guided munitions (PGMs) in artillery systems has been one of the biggest developments in recent years. With unmatched accuracy, these highly developed projectiles zero in on predetermined targets using satellite guidance, inertial navigation, and sophisticated targeting systems.
Artillery units can efficiently neutralize enemy threats with surgical precision by maximizing lethality and minimizing collateral damage by utilizing smart bombs.
Automation and Digitalaization:
The advent of automation and digitalization has revolutionized the way artillery systems are operated and maintained.
Advanced fire control systems, integrated with cutting-edge sensors and data analytics capabilities, enable artillery crews to acquire and engage targets with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Predictive maintenance algorithms and remote diagnostics tools optimize the performance and longevity of artillery barrels, ensuring peak operational readiness in the field.
Artillery systems are embracing AI and ML for improved target prediction, operational efficiency, and real-time decision-making on the battlefield. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize artillery capabilities.
Precision-Guided Munitions:
A significant trend in modern artillery is the shift towards precision-guided munitions. This technology enhances accuracy, allowing artillery to strike targets, even at long ranges, with minimal collateral damage.
Network Integration:
Artillery systems are being increasingly integrated with other weapons systems and sensors. This allows for better coordination and targeting.
Leading Companies that Produce Artillery Systems:
- Lockheed Marin
- Nexter Group
- Norinco Corp
- Rostec
- General Dynamics Corp
- Elbits Systems
- BAE Systems
Conclusion
As technology continues to evolve, artillery systems will undoubtedly become even more capable and lethal. However, the fundamental principles of artillery—mass, accuracy, and surprise—will remain essential for success on the battlefield.