Model M777 howitzer is a lightweight 155mm towed howitzer used by the United States Army and Marine Corps. Also, several other countries. It is known for its high mobility and versatility, making it a valuable asset on the battlefield. Here are some key features and specifications of the Model M777 howitzer:
Features:
- Lightweight: The M777 is made primarily of titanium and aluminum alloys, which significantly reduces its weight compared to traditional howitzers. This makes it easier to transport and maneuver in various terrains.
- Portability: The M777 can be airlifted by helicopters, such as the CH-47 Chinook, and transported by a variety of vehicles, including trucks and light tactical vehicles. Its mobility allows for rapid deployment and repositioning on the battlefield.
- Long Range: The M777 has a maximum firing range of approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles) with conventional ammunition. With extended-range projectiles, it can reach up to 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Its accuracy and range make it effective in both offensive and defensive operations.
- Digital Fire Control System: The M777 is equipped with a digital fire control system that includes an inertial navigation system and a global positioning system (GPS). This advanced system provides accurate targeting and improves overall firing performance.
- Rapid Fire Capability: The M777 has a rate of fire of up to 5 rounds per minute in sustained fire and 2 rounds per minute in rapid fire. Its quick response time allows for effective support during combat situations.
Specifications:
- Caliber: 155mm
- Weight: 4,200 kg (9,259 lbs)
- Length: 9.07 meters (29.8 feet)
- Width: 2.84 meters (9.3 feet)
- Crew: 7 (gun commander, driver, three gunners, and two ammunition handlers)
- Maximum Range: 24 kilometers (15 miles) with conventional ammunition, 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) with extended-range projectiles
- Muzzle Velocity: 827 meters per second (2,713 feet per second)
- Elevation Range: -3 to +70 degrees
- Traversing Range: 4,590 mils (260 degrees)
Model M777 howitzer is widely regarded as a reliable and effective artillery system. Its lightweight design, portability, and advanced features make it an essential component of modern military operations.
Model M777 Howitzer Overview
Model M777 howitzer is a 155 mm towed artillery unit. It was developed for the United States Army, in partnership with BAE Systems. It replaced the M198 howitzer.
The M777 is significantly lighter than previous howitzers. It weighs about 4,200 kg (9,300 lb). This allows it to be transported under suspension from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter or from a CH-53E Super Stallion. Compared to the 9,070 kg (20,000 lb) M198 howitzer, the M777 requires 63% fewer maintenance man-hours.
The weapon uses the standard High Range Artillery Missile (ER HIMARS) ammunition. It thus increases the range of the M777 from the M198’s maximum range of 18–21 km (11–13 mi) to more than 30 km (19 mi).
Model M777 howitzer has been adopted by the militaries of the United States, Canada, Australia, India, and Saudi Arabia. There has been combat use by US, Australian and Canadian military units in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria.
Model M777 Howitzer Design and characteristics
The M777 howitzer is made from a combination of titanium and aluminum alloys. Its weight of 4,200 kg (9,300 lb) makes it about 63% lighter than previous howitzers such as the M198.
Alloy wheels and brakes are incorporated into the design. This reduces the number of people required to transport the M198 crew from 11 people to just 7. The number of parts requiring regular maintenance has dropped from 138 to 76.
The system can fire existing 155 mm ammunition. It is compatible with the new Vulcano artillery target developed by Nexter of France. The M777 uses standard munitions for the Extended Range High Mobility Artillery Missile (ER HIMARS). It provides a maximum range of over 30 km (19 miles). That’s more than double the older M198 howitzer.
The M777 is a 155 mm artillery piece developed by the British company BAE Systems. It is known for its lightweight design. This makes it very mobile and easily transportable by air. The howitzer has a range of up to 24 kilometers. It can fire a variety of munitions, including high explosive, smoke and flares.
Features and Capabilities
- Lightweight: The M777 weighs approximately 4,200 kilograms, making it one of the lightest 155mm howitzers in the world. This allows for easier transportation and rapid deployment in various terrains.
- Mobility: The howitzer can be towed by a variety of vehicles, including trucks and light utility vehicles. Its lightweight design enables it to be transported by helicopters, such as the CH-47 Chinook or the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion.
- Long Range: With a maximum range of 24 kilometers, the M777 can effectively engage targets at a significant distance. Its advanced digital fire control system and precision-guided munitions enhance accuracy and lethality.
- Rapid Fire: The M777 has a rate of fire of up to 5 rounds per minute and a sustained rate of fire of 2 rounds per minute. This allows for quick and continuous engagement of targets.
- Modern Technology: The howitzer is equipped with advanced features such as GPS navigation, inertial navigation systems, and digital fire control systems. These technologies improve accuracy and reduce the time required for target acquisition.
Model M777 howitzer History
Development of the M777 began in the late 1990s as a joint project between the United States and the United Kingdom. The goal was to replace the outdated M198 howitzer with a more modern and lighter alternative. The first prototype was successfully tested in 2000. Production began in 2002.
The M777 has been adopted by several countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and India. He has seen combat in various conflicts, including the war in Afghanistan and the war in Iraq. That’s where its lightweight design and long-range capabilities proved to be an advantage.
Model M777 howitzer is a highly capable and versatile towed howitzer that provides rapid and accurate artillery support. Its lightweight design, long-range capabilities, and modern technology make it a valuable asset for armed forces around the world. Whether it’s providing fire support to ground troops or engaging targets from a distance, the M777 has proven its effectiveness on the battlefield.
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