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History of artillary

The artillery branch has played a crucial role in military history, providing long-range firepower and supporting infantry and armored units on the battlefield. Its origins date back to ancient times, with early examples including catapults and ballistae, but it was during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance that gunpowder artillery revolutionized warfare. By the 19th and 20th centuries, artillery evolved into highly mobile and technologically advanced units, employing a range of weapons from howitzers to rocket systems. Modern artillery continues to be a decisive factor in conflicts, capable of delivering precise and devastating fire support across vast distances.

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ABOUT artillary

  • Ancient Origins: Artillery traces its origins back to ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans using catapults, ballistae, and other siege engines to hurl projectiles at enemy fortifications.
  • The Invention of Gunpowder: The invention of gunpowder in China around the 9th century revolutionized artillery, leading to the creation of the first true cannons by the 13th century.
  • "King of Battle": Artillery has earned the nickname "King of Battle" due to its decisive impact on the outcome of battles throughout history.
  • Napoleon's Mastery: Napoleon Bonaparte was a former artillery officer, and his innovative use of massed artillery fire played a crucial role in his military successes.
  • World War I Barrages: During World War I, artillery was responsible for about 60% of all battlefield casualties, with massive barrages shaping trench warfare.
  • The "Long Tom": The 155mm "Long Tom" field gun was a famous American artillery piece in World War II, known for its range and accuracy.
  • Thunder of Guns: The largest artillery gun ever built was the German "Schwerer Gustav," a railway gun used in World War II that fired 7-ton shells over 29 miles.
  • Modern Precision: Modern artillery uses GPS-guided shells, such as the US Army's Excalibur round, capable of striking targets with pinpoint accuracy up to 25 miles away.
  • The Artillery Duel: During the Battle of Kursk in 1943, the largest tank battle in history was preceded by an enormous artillery duel involving thousands of guns on both sides.
  • Forward Observers: Artillery relies on specialized soldiers called forward observers, who operate near the front lines to spot enemy targets and direct fire accurately.

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