M101 HOWITZER

The '105 mm Howitzer M2A1(M101)' was the standard medium field howitzer for the U.S. in World War II, seeing action in both European and Pacific theatres. Entering production in 1941, it quickly entered the war against the Japanese Imperial Army in the Pacific, where it gained a reputation for its accuracy and powerful punch. The M101 fired 105 mm H.E. semi-fixed ammunition and had a range of 11,200 m, making it suitable for supporting infantry. All these important qualities of the weapon, along with its widespread production, led to its adoption by many countries after the war. Its ammunition type also became the standard for many foreign countries' later models. After minor changes in the post war era, the howitzer became known as M101A1. It continued to see service in the Korean War, and Vietnam War. Though a similar model, the M102 howitzer, shared the same roles in battle, it never fully replaced the M101. Today the 101A1 has been retired by the U.S. military, though it continues to see service with many other countries.
The Canadian Forces continued to use the M2A1 as the C1 Howitzer until 1997 when a modification was made to extend its service life. It is now designated the C3. Its improvements include a longer barrel, a muzzle brake, reinforced trails and the removal of shield flaps. It remains the standard light howitzer of Canadian reserve force units.
France and the State of Vietnam used it during the First Indochina War.
A number of M2/M101 howitzers were used by Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and approximately 50 were inherited by Croatia. Yugoslavia manufactured the M101 as the M56, and 100 of these were inherited by Croatia.
M2 Howitzers are still in service in the Australian Army Reserve, albeit in small numbers. They are gradually being replaced by L118 Light Gun and M198 Howitzers.
Also known as the M2A1 Howitzer.
This artillery piece was used by 67 countries.

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See also

External links

See also

★ M3 howitzer

★ M7 Priest

★ List of artillery

External links

★ FAS Military Analysis Network

★ Pakdef.info