Light weight field howitzer

The light weight field howitzer includes a barrel (101) which is supported by a cradle constructed from hollow members (119,119A) and which is pivotally mounted about a trunnion bearing (113) secured to a chassis (117). The trunnion bearing (113) lies on the barrel axis and is positioned beyond the limit of maximum recoil of the barrel. Front stabilisers and rear trail support legs are provided to spread the load of the howitzer and spades (106) are rigidly but removably secured to the chassis. The howitzer includes a single hydraulic accumulator arrangement (136,177,185,130,189,119) constituting a combined recoil buffer and recuperator system. A barrel elevating device (Figure (7) not shown)is provided comprising a geared manual device (115,116,153,149,139) assisted by a precompressed gas system (114,119A). Hydraulically pivoted wheels and a pivotted towing lunette may be provided and the howitzer may be split easily into units which can be carried by a light helicopter.