Artillery, Multiple Rocket Launchers, and
Surface-to-Surface Missiles

This table lists the major artillery systems in use world-wide, excluding very old (pre-World War II) and prototype systems. Many older artillery pieces are still in service (the former Yugoslav states still use 88mm German dual-purpose guns and produce ammo for them) in limited numbers, although they may be of limited effectiveness and used in only limited areas and numbers.

Caliber indicates the weapons bore width/diameter or rocket size, except for surface-to-surface missiles. The nickname of missiles and free rockets is listed in place of the missile diameter. Type indicates the basic role of the weapon, or basic weapon type. The table extension shows the known ammunition types in service or available for the weapon, although not every type is available to all users.

Surface-to-Surface Missiles are only included if they have operational or tactical use. ICBM, IRBM, and other strategic systems are not included. Several regional and local SSM systems (example, NODONG) are included, because of their relative obscurity and potential for tactical use, even though their primary use may be strategic or political.

The wide range of mortars available precludes a full listing here. However, some of the most representative or common ones are listed here. Many other models are local copies of those listed, or are based on their designs. Mortars are largely limited by the ammunition available, not the system. Many mortars can fire other nation’s ammunition, and some nations specialise in improved ammunition for older mortars, so the ranges listed here are a guide only.

RANGE: The nominal maximum range of the weapon in the indirect fire role. Not all types of ammo may be capable of this range, and many systems may not be normally used/equipped for indirect use.

MAX EFF DIRECT FIRE RANGE: The nominal maximum effective range for the system when fired directly. Almost artillery systems have potential direct fire capability; when known, a planning range is provided for these systems. Not all types of ammunition may be rated for this range on any given system.

ERBB OR RAP RANGE: The maximum range this system can attain with Extended Range/Base Bleed or Rocket Assisted Projectiles. For Multiple Rocket Launchers, this represents the range of any extended range rocket, if available. These shells may have other names (Extended Range Full Bore, etc.)

MIN RANGE: The minimum indirect fire range for the system. This is most frequently associated with mortars, SSMs, and free rocket systems. However, some MRLs and mortars can be fired directly, and some nations train crews for this role. "Directly" does not equate to direct lay, where the crew acts as its own spotter for indirect fire; it means shooting directly at the target in a flat trajectory (like a tank gun).

ECHELON: The unit or area where the weapon is normally organic or used.

Adapted From: Devil Brigade DataBase CPT W. Scott Phillips
[S-2, 1st (Devil) Brigade] 01 November 1994
Last Updated on 8/31/1999 By John Pike

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