Basics of Modern Artillery

What Is Artillery?

Large-caliber guns intended to fire projectiles over great distances are referred to as artillery. These systems assist infantry and armored units. They do that by hitting distant targets or targets that too well-defended for small arms or tank fire. In both offensive and defensive operations, artillery can suppress fire, destroy enemy positions, and interfere with supply lines.

Key Types of Modern Artillery

• Howitzers: Versatile guns that can fire at both high and low angles. They are used for indirect fire and have adjustable range and elevation. For instance, M777.
• Self-Propelled Artillery: Howitzers mounted on armored vehicles are known as self-propelled artillery because they are more mobile and can be deployed more quickly. For example, CAESAR, PzH 2000.
• Rocket Artillery: These systems fire guided or unguided rockets in place of shells. They are frequently employed for saturation attacks and have the ability to strike large areas. For instance, HIMARS, TOS-1A.
• Mortars: They are lightweight, short-barrelled launchers that produce high-arc, close-range fire (up to ~10 km for heavier models). Infantry units frequently carry it.

How Does Artillery Work?

Artillery systems fire projectiles—either shells or rockets—toward targets using explosive propellants. Modern artillery greatly increases accuracy by using fire control systems, laser rangefinding, and GPS. Many systems now enable “smart munitions” that self-guide in the last phase of flight.

Crews compute distance, wind, angle, and timing. In greater operations, artillery is coordinated with drones and radar systems to identify, engage, and adjust fire in real time.

Artillery in Modern Warfare

Modern wars are still mostly dominated by artillery. Both sides in the Ukraine-Russia war rely mostly on tube and rocket artillery for both offensive and defensive purposes. Artillery shapes the battlefield by not only destroying targets but also by restricting enemy movement and pushing them into defensive postures.

Advantages of Modern Artillery

• Long Range: Some howitzers can strike targets over 40 km away.
• Precision: GPS-guided munitions allow for pinpoint accuracy.
• Mobility: Self-propelled systems can shoot and reposition quickly.
• Psychological Impact: Sustained artillery fire can demoralize enemy troops and limit their actions.

Conclusion

Artillery is not just about brute force—it’s about reach, timing, and precision. As modern armies continue to digitize their operations, artillery remains a key component of fire support and battlefield dominance. From precision strikes to area saturation, its importance is only growing.