Mod 56 105 mm Towed Pack Howitzer

Reading Time: 2 minutes The OTO Melara Mod 56 is a lightweight, packable 105 mm howitzer developed in Italy in the 1950s for mountain and airborne units. Its low weight, modular construction, and reliable service record make it particularly attractive for light, riverine and expeditionary forces that value mobility over long-range firepower. Roles Envisaged for the Bangladesh Army Light field artillery for operations in riverine, marsh and hilly terrain. Air-mobile or riverine detachments where the gun’s disassembly and compact transport are vital. Direct-fire support in defensive positions and short-range engagements. Technical Specifications ItemMod 56Calibre105 mm (105 × 372 R)BarrelL/14 (short barrel)Weight (in action)1,250–1,290 kgCarriageSplit-trail; rubber-tyred wheels; can be broken down for transportBreechVertical sliding blockRecoil SystemHydro-pneumaticElevation Range−7° to +65°Traverse Range56°Rate of Fire8 rds/min (max); 4 rds/min (sustained)Muzzle Velocity~416 m/sMaximum Range10.5 km (standard charge); longer with ER/ERFB ammunitionCrew Complement6 – 7 gunnersAmmunition TypeStandard 105 mm NATO (HE, smoke, illumination, practice and specialised