Does Canada Have Self-Propelled Howitzers?

In the modern landscape of Canadian military equipment, the question of self-propelled howitzers has been a topic of historical significance. This article delves into the historical deployment and eventual phasing out of self-propelled howitzers in Canada, highlighting the transition to more contemporary solutions.

Introduction to Canadian Military Howitzers:

The use of self-propelled howitzers has been a staple in the arsenal of many NATO countries, including Canada. Historically, the Royal Canadian Artillery has utilized various models of self-propelled howitzers to provide combat support in various military operations. One such model was the U.S.-made M109 howitzer, which served the Canadian military from 1968 until its retirement in 2005.

Historical Deployment of M109 Howitzers

The M109 howitzer was a backbone of the Canadian arsenal until its decommissioning in 2005. The Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery operated 74 M109A4 models, which were one of the last designs of this type. These howitzers were known for their mobility and effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

The decision to retire the M109A4 models was based on cost considerations. Maintaining such a fleet was increasingly expensive, especially as world events required the Royal Canadian Artillery to adapt to more modern warfare tactics. The need for cost-efficient solutions led the Canadian government to seek alternatives.

Transition to Towed 155mm Howitzers

In response to the need for updated equipment, the Canadian Armed Forces acquired towed 155mm howitzers to replace the retiring self-propelled models. Two key models were the M777 howitzer, a British Aerospace development that is also used by the United States Army, and the LG1 105mm howitzer. These towed howitzers offered better cost-effectiveness and aligned with the evolving military strategies of the 21st century.

Details of Cannons in Use Today

The current inventory of Canadian artillery regiments includes the C3 Close Support Gun, a variant of the venerable M101 towed 105mm howitzer. Manufactured at the Royal Canadian Artillery’s home base, Rick Island Arsenal, these howitzers remain a reliable choice for the Canadian Armed Forces.

Retirement and Disposal of M109 Models

The M109A4 models were decommissioned in 2005. The decision to retire these models was not only due to cost but also as part of an overall strategic reassessment of Canadian military equipment. The last 12 out of 74 M109s were retired, and the remaining models were either dismantled or put on display at military bases, museums, or branches of the Royal Canadian Legion as memorabilia.

Conclusion:

While Canada once had a strong array of self-propelled howitzers, the evolving nature of modern warfare and strategic needs have led to a shift towards more cost-effective alternatives. The transition to towed howitzers such as the M777 and the continued use of reliable but less sophisticated torpedo models like the C3 Close Support Gun reflect a careful balance of budgetary considerations and combat effectiveness.

References:

Canadian Forces official records of M109A4 retirement Documentation on M777 and LG1 howitzers in Canadian service News articles on Canadian military procurement and equipment changes

Note: The information provided is based on historical records and may be updated as new information becomes available.