The 105mm Light Gun is a lightweight, towed artillery piece developed to meet the demands for a versatile, mobile, and accurate fire support system. Designed for rapid deployment and adaptability, it has served as a mainstay of the Royal Artillery since its introduction in 1975, replacing the 105mm Pack Howitzer. Over its decades of service, the system has proven effective in diverse theaters, including the Falklands, Kuwait, Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
The gun is notable for its air portability, enabling it to be transported by helicopters such as the Chinook or underslung by a Puma, and its compatibility with high-explosive and specialized munitions. Its durability and reliability were exemplified during the Falklands conflict, where it demonstrated sustained fire rates of up to 400 rounds daily.
Recent enhancements have modernized its targeting capabilities, ensuring continued relevance in contemporary combat scenarios.
Features and Enhancements
- Auto Pointing System (APS):
The introduction of the APS represents the most significant upgrade to the Light Gun in its operational life. The APS replaces the manual dial sight system with an inertial navigation-based mechanism. Key advantages include:- Rapid deployment: operational readiness within 30 seconds.
- Automatic compensation for trunnion tilt, removing the need for manual leveling.
- A touchscreen interface guiding precise gun alignment for enhanced targeting accuracy.
- High Explosive Improved Ammunition:
In a 2005 contract with BAE Systems, the UK Ministry of Defence introduced advanced munitions incorporating Insensitive Munitions (IM) technology. These shells improve lethality against varied targets while increasing safety during transport and handling. Deliveries of the new shells began in 2006, with potential procurement extending until 2017. - Operational Deployment:
The gun’s airportability and adaptability make it suitable for rapid deployment across challenging terrains. It remains integral to artillery regiments supporting expeditionary and combat operations globally.
Export Success
The 105mm Light Gun has achieved significant success in international markets, with notable operators including Australia, the United States, New Zealand, and Oman. Its adaptability and performance have made it a favored choice among allied forces for versatile fire support solutions.
