Global reach and battlefield versatility
The M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer is the US Army's primary mobile artillery system, fielded widely across NATO and allied forces.
Its main weapon is a 155mm cannon capable of delivering powerful indirect fire support in both offensive and defensive operations.
Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, Iraq, Israel, Oman and others operate the M109, making it the most common self-propelled artillery system worldwide.
Its reliability, adaptability and firepower have earned it a central role in modern arsenals.
Mounted on a tracked armored chassis, the M109 can travel up to 60 kilometers per hour on paved roads.
It is typically crewed by four to five personnel, including a commander, driver, gunner and loaders.
Combat-proven and continuously upgraded
The M109 played a critical role in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, providing long-range fire support and counter-battery missions against Iraqi forces.
It suppressed enemy air defenses and supported coalition advances with precision and volume fire.
In Iraq and Afghanistan, the M109 was used for urban fire support, precision strikes and deterrence against enemy forces operating in open terrain.
Its ability to deliver accurate fire from protected positions made it a valuable asset in complex environments.
The system's conventional rounds reach up to 24 kilometers, while rocket-assisted projectiles extend that range to 30 kilometers.
The M109 can also fire GPS-guided Excalibur rounds, which reach 40 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy.
These munitions allow forces to engage high-value targets such as bunkers, command posts and armored vehicles with minimal collateral damage.
Strategic role and modern enhancements
The M109A7 is the latest variant, featuring a digital fire control system, improved survivability and a modernized suspension.
These upgrades enhance mobility, responsiveness and integration with networked battlefield systems.
While lightly armored, the M109 is built to withstand small arms fire and shrapnel, allowing it to operate in contested zones.
Its primary mission is to support infantry and mechanized units with indirect fire, destroy enemy artillery through counter-battery operations and neutralize strategic targets during offensive maneuvers.
Whether halting enemy armor or disrupting command structures, the M109 remains a cornerstone of US and allied firepower.
![M109A6 Howitzers to provide fire support for various units during a multi-component, multinational exercise designed to build readiness and enhance interoperability with allied forces, August 2 to 16, 2025. [US Army]](/ssc/images/2025/11/30/52852-_13f__m109_howitzer-600_384.webp)