Type of towing gun and why it is still used

Towed guns and self-propelled guns (SPGs) are two types of artillery systems used in modern warfare. While SPGs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their mobility and versatility, towed guns are still used in certain situations and for specific purposes.

Towed guns are artillery pieces that are towed behind a vehicle or mounted on a stationary platform. They are typically less expensive than SPGs and can be operated by a smaller crew. Additionally, they can be easily transported over long distances, making them ideal for rapid deployment and supporting infantry units in combat.

One of the main advantages of towed guns is their simplicity. Towed guns have a basic design that is easy to maintain and repair. They also have a lower profile than SPGs, making them more difficult to detect by enemy forces. This can be especially important in certain situations where stealth is necessary.

Another advantage of towed guns is their flexibility. They can be easily deployed in various types of terrain, including mountainous regions and areas with limited road infrastructure. This makes them ideal for supporting ground forces in a wide range of environments. They are also capable of firing a wide range of ammunition types, including high explosive, smoke, and illumination rounds, making them a versatile asset on the battlefield.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using towed guns. They have limited mobility and can be difficult to maneuver in certain situations. This can make them vulnerable to enemy fire and limit their effectiveness in fast-moving battles. Additionally, they require a larger logistical support structure than SPGs, which can make them less suitable for long-range operations.

On the other hand, SPGs are artillery pieces that are mounted on a self-propelled platform. They are designed to be highly mobile and can rapidly move across different types of terrain. They can also be operated by a smaller crew than towed guns, which can be an advantage in certain situations.

One of the main advantages of SPGs is their speed and mobility. They can quickly move to different locations on the battlefield, making them ideal for providing close support to ground troops. Additionally, they are often equipped with advanced targeting and fire control systems, which can increase their accuracy and effectiveness.

Another advantage of SPGs is their firepower. They are often equipped with larger calibre guns and can fire a wider range of ammunition types than towed guns. This makes them more effective against heavily armoured targets and fortified positions.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using SPGs. They are typically more expensive than towed guns and require more specialized maintenance and training. They are also larger and more visible than towed guns, which can make them easier targets for enemy fire.

In conclusion, both towed guns and SPGs have their advantages and disadvantages. Towed guns are typically less expensive, simpler to operate and maintain, and can be easily transported over long distances. They are also more versatile and flexible in different types of terrain. On the other hand, SPGs are highly mobile, can rapidly move across different types of terrain, and are often equipped with larger calibre guns and advanced targeting systems. Ultimately, the choice between towed guns and SPGs depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the mission.

 Towed cannons are artillery pieces that are transported by a vehicle or animal and are not mounted on a self-propelled gun (SPG) chassis. The caliber of the towed cannon is an important consideration in determining the type of tow required. The size and weight of the cannon must be taken into account to ensure that the tow system is adequate and can safely transport the artillery piece.

Small-caliber towed cannons generally have a caliber of less than 75mm. These cannons are typically used for infantry support and are designed for mobility and ease of use. They are often mounted on a two-wheeled carriage and can be towed by a light vehicle or even a horse. The M3 37mm anti-tank gun, which was widely used by the United States during World War II, is an example of a small-caliber towed cannon.

Medium-caliber towed cannons generally have a caliber of between 75mm and 105mm. These cannons are designed to be more versatile than small-caliber cannons and can be used for a variety of missions, including anti-tank, anti-aircraft, and field artillery support. They are typically mounted on a four-wheeled carriage and can be towed by a truck or tracked vehicle. The M101 105mm howitzer, which has been used by the United States and other countries since the 1950s, is an example of a medium-caliber towed cannon.

Large-caliber towed cannons generally have a caliber of over 105mm. These cannons are designed for long-range artillery support and are typically used for indirect fire missions. They are mounted on a four-wheeled carriage or a split-trail carriage and are towed by a heavy truck or tracked vehicle. Large-caliber towed cannons can have a range of up to 50 kilometers and can deliver devastating firepower. The M198 155mm howitzer, which has been used by the United States and other countries since the 1970s, is an example of a large-caliber towed cannon.

Super-large-caliber towed cannons generally have a caliber of over 200mm. These cannons are designed for specialized missions, such as bunker busting or counter-battery fire. They are mounted on a specialized carriage and are towed by a heavy truck or tracked vehicle. Super-large-caliber towed cannons can have a range of over 50 kilometers and can deliver massive firepower. The Soviet/Russian D-20 2A65 towed howitzer, which has a caliber of 152mm, and the US M110 8-inch self-propelled howitzer, which has a caliber of 203mm, are examples of super-large-caliber towed cannons.

In conclusion, the size and weight of the artillery piece determine the type of tow required. Small-caliber towed cannons can be towed by light vehicles or even animals, while large-caliber and super-large-caliber towed cannons require heavy trucks or tracked vehicles. The tow system used for the artillery piece must be able to safely transport the cannon to its destination while ensuring its stability and maneuverability during transport.