The Dimensions and Characteristics of 105mm Artillery Rounds

Discussing the dimensions and characteristics of 105mm artillery rounds provides a comprehensive understanding of these crucial weapons used in modern military systems. This article delves into the specifications, weight, and various types of 105mm artillery shells used in combat.

Understanding the Dimensions

The term '105mm artillery round' describes the caliber of the weapon, which refers to the diameter of the bore of the gun through which the shell (or projectile) passes. Specifically, a 105mm round has a diameter of approximately 4.134 inches (105 mm), making it a standard size in various military applications.

Standard Specifications of 105mm Artillery Rounds

The standard 105mm artillery round is typically about 4 inches in diameter and weighs between 30 to 35 pounds (13.6 to 15.9 kg), depending on whether it is a fixed round with a cartridge case or a separate type with a bagged charge of powder or open-cased loading after the shell.

Types of 105mm Artillery Rounds

There are multiple types of 105mm artillery rounds used for various purposes:

High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) Rounds

HEAT rounds are designed to penetrate armor plating by creating a jet that burns through the armor, making them effective against heavily armored targets. They typically weigh around 35 pounds and are known for their explosive power.

White Phosphorus (WP) Rounds

WP rounds release white phosphorus, which can ignite and burn continuously. These are useful for creating smoke screens, illumination, and anti-personnel purposes. WP rounds are also relatively heavy, weighing about 30 to 35 pounds.

High-Explosive (HE) Rounds

HE rounds are designed to explode with a large blast radius, providing area denial and causing significant damage to soft targets. These rounds are generally heavier than HEAT and WP rounds, typically weighing around 40 to 50 pounds.

Specialized Rounds and Additional Features

Additionally, there are specialized rounds that enhance the versatility and effectiveness of 105mm artillery, such as:

Combined High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) and White Phosphorus (HEAT WP) Rounds

These rounds combine the penetrating power of HEAT with the incendiary properties of WP, making them highly effective against armored and soft targets. They are particularly useful in urban combat scenarios.

Armor Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) Rounds

APFSDS rounds are designed for penetrative capabilities against tanks and heavy armored vehicles. These rounds are lighter and more compact than traditional armor-piercing rounds, allowing for faster firing rates and improved accuracy.

Historical and Current Usage

The 105mm artillery round has been used extensively in major conflicts, including both World Wars, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Today, it remains a key weapon in various military arsenals, supported by advanced technologies that improve their accuracy and lethality.

Unique Traditions and Uses

In some military training units, there are unique traditions associated with the final round of training exercises. After firing the last round, the tankers often leave some carbon residue in the casing and mix it with various substances to create a drink known as 'Diesel and Dust.' This tradition, deeply rooted in military culture, adds a memorable and symbolic conclusion to the training phase.

Conclusion

Understanding the dimensions, types, and usage of 105mm artillery rounds is essential for anyone interested in military technology and history. These versatile and lethal weapons continue to play a vital role in modern warfare, with advancements constantly improving their performance and effectiveness.