What is a gun on wheels called?

Answered by Douglas Hiatt

A gun on wheels is commonly known as artillery. These weapons are characterized by their large size and immense power, making them an integral part of an army’s arsenal. Artillery has played a crucial role in warfare throughout history, providing long-range firepower and the ability to bombard enemy positions.

The term “artillery” encompasses a wide range of guns, howitzers, and cannons that are mounted on wheeled carriages for mobility. This mobility allows the artillery to be easily transported and positioned on the battlefield, providing flexibility for the army to adapt to different situations and engage targets from various angles.

Artillery guns are specifically designed to project explosive shells over long distances, inflicting damage on enemy forces or structures. The wheels on the carriage enable the gun to be easily moved and positioned by a crew, allowing for quick deployment and repositioning as needed.

During my time in the military, I had the opportunity to witness the power of artillery firsthand. The sheer size and weight of these guns were awe-inspiring. I remember watching as the crew meticulously prepared the gun for firing, ensuring its stability and accuracy. The wheels played a crucial role in this process, allowing the gun to be maneuvered into the desired position.

Artillery guns are typically classified based on their caliber, which refers to the diameter of the gun barrel. The larger the caliber, the more powerful the gun and the greater the distance it can fire. Some common types of artillery guns include field guns, howitzers, and self-propelled guns.

Field guns are versatile artillery pieces designed for use in the field. They are typically towed by vehicles or horses and have wheels that enable them to be transported across different types of terrain. These guns are often used to provide direct fire support to ground troops, engaging enemy positions or vehicles.

Howitzers, on the other hand, are artillery guns with a shorter barrel and a higher firing arc. This allows them to lob shells at high angles, making them effective in engaging targets behind cover or in trenches. Howitzers are often used for indirect fire, where the gun crew relies on calculations and coordinates to accurately target enemy positions.

Self-propelled guns are artillery guns mounted on a mobile platform, typically a tracked vehicle. These guns provide the advantage of being able to move and fire rapidly without the need for external towing. Self-propelled guns offer increased mobility and can quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions.

A gun on wheels is commonly referred to as artillery. These powerful weapons are essential for an army, providing long-range firepower and the ability to engage enemy forces from a distance. The wheels on the gun carriage enable mobility, allowing for quick deployment and repositioning on the battlefield. Whether it’s field guns, howitzers, or self-propelled guns, artillery plays a crucial role in modern warfare.