A modernized towed artillery system

The M777 is a lightweight 155 mm towed howitzer used by the US Army and US Marine Corps, providing long-range firepower in support of offensive and defensive ground operations.

Designed with extensive titanium components, the gun weighs roughly 9,300 pounds (4,200 kg), making it significantly lighter than earlier systems such as the M198.

Its reduced weight enables faster emplacement, quicker displacement and greater mobility across demanding terrain.

The system requires a crew of five to eight personnel, allowing smaller teams to operate effectively during high-tempo missions.

The M777 can be transported by CH-47 Chinook or CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters, allowing it to support rapid-raid operations or reach remote firing positions unreachable by heavier artillery.

It also fits inside a C-130 transport aircraft, enabling quick shifts between operational areas when longer-range movement is required.

The howitzer fires NATO-standard 155 mm ammunition, allowing seamless integration with allied stockpiles.

Standard high-explosive rounds reach about 24 kilometers, while rocket-assisted projectiles extend the range to roughly 30 kilometers.

The M982 Excalibur GPS-guided projectile pushes its reach to about 40 kilometers, enabling precision engagements that reduce collateral damage in urban or complex terrain.

The Excalibur capability also enhances the system's value during counterinsurgency operations and densely populated conflicts.

Combat employment from Afghanistan to Ukraine

The M777 played an important role during the Battle of Sangin in Helmand Province between 2010 and 2011, where US Marines and British forces relied on its long-range support to counter entrenched Taliban fighters.

Units employed Excalibur rounds to strike insurgent positions with high accuracy, helping reduce civilian harm in crowded neighborhoods and supporting infantry as they advanced through heavily contested districts.

Artillery fire from the howitzers also disrupted large Taliban formations, slowing insurgent activity during prolonged engagements.

Several Gulf Cooperation Council nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar, have acquired the M777 as part of broad modernization programs.

Their purchases highlight the system's global acceptance as a reliable, mobile and precise artillery capability suited for varied operational environments.

Since 2022, the M777 has also supported Ukrainian forces facing Russian advances.

Its lightweight frame allows rapid relocation to avoid counterbattery fire, an essential requirement in highly contested artillery battles.

Ukrainian crews have used Excalibur rounds to engage high-value targets with precision, strengthening defensive lines and enhancing asymmetric tactics across multiple fronts.

From mountainous terrain to dense city centers, the M777 remains a versatile fire-support platform.

Its combination of mobility, precision and compatibility with advanced weaponries continues to make it a central artillery system for US and partner forces worldwide.