Development of the sFH 18 began in 1926 and was ready for production in 1933. The gun originated with a contest between Rheinmetall and Krupp, who entered several designs that were all considered unsatisfactory for one reason or another. The Army combined the best features of both companies.
The 15cm Schwere Feldhaubitze 18 (sFH 18) was the principle heavy howitzer in German divisions during WW2. Germany issued rocket-assisted ammunition for the sFH 18 in 1941. While this marked the first time a gun fired rocket-assisted ammo in battle, Germany did not consider it successful and withdrew it. Germany later produced a self-propelled version of the sFH 18 called the Hummel (Bumblebee).
Despite the emergence of new guns outperforming the sFH 18, Germany and its allies still used them well into the Cold War. After WW2, different nations used upgraded versions, with Finland being the last to retire the weapon in 2007.
Weight of Projectile: 43.5 kilograms (96 pounds)
Range: 13,250 metres (14,490 yards)
Detachment: Gun, limber, horses, or towing vehicle, and 12 gunners