Indian Army Wepons (130 mm towed field gun M1954)

The 130 mm towed field gun M1954, also known as the M-46 is a manually loaded, towed 130 mm artillery piece, manufactured in the Soviet Union in the 1950s. It was first observed by the west in 1954 and was known as the M1954. There is also a Chinese copy, called Type 59-1.

Crew: Nine.

Calibre: 130mm

Recoil: Hydraulic buffer and hydro-pneumatic recuperation system.

Shield: Optional.

Armament: FRAG-HE, APC-T, SP-46 (illumination), Smoke.

Rate of Fire: 5 - 6 rounds per minute.

Gun Elevation/Depression: -2.5º to +45º

Traverse: ±50º in total.

Ammunition Range: 27,150 metres (full charge)...........................19,100 metres (reduced charge).

Comments: During its induction phase, an estimated 200 guns were purchased each year to replace the 105mm IFG/LFG. The Daily Excelsior, reported on 12 Aug 2002, that 750 guns of this type were acquired in the early eighties.