M109 A4+ 155MM Self-Propelled Howitzer

The M109 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer on display was in B Battery, 1 RCHA from 1968 to 2005.  This particular gun fired Canada’s first M109 round in 1968 and took part in the final regimental shoot in 2005. 

The M109 used state-of-the-art technology for a high-intensity, mechanized battlefield during the Cold War in Europe.  The M109 entered service with the Regular Army field batteries in 1968, initially with Canada’s NATO Brigade Group.  Light, parachute, and field batteries in Canada retained L5 and C1 105mm Howitzers.

Initially equipped with a short barrel, the gun went through a series of modifications over the years, culminating in the M109A4+ version.  This gun had better protection against nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons.  The longer barrel improved the range by 4,000 metres.

Weight of projectile: 98 pounds
Range: 18,000 metres. 22,000 with special ammunition
Detachment: Gun, HLVW ammunition carrier and 10 Gunners