The Practicality of Land-based Artillery Fire Comparable to the USS Iowa's 16-inch Gun
When discussing the utility of artillery cannons, one often thinks of the massive 16-inch guns found on the USS Iowa, one of the iconic battleships that served in the Pacific during World War II. These powerful cannons, with their impressive 2690 lb shells, might seem outdated in the era of modern land artillery. However, the practicality of such an installation on land must be carefully examined. In this article, we explore the feasibility of using similar artillery pieces on land, drawing comparisons with existing systems and historical precedents.
USS Iowa’s 16-inch Naval Gun
The USS Iowa-class battleships, particularly the USS Iowa (BB-61), were equipped with 16-inch guns that could fire a powerful 2,690 lb shell an impressive feat in its time. This weapon was capable of shore bombardment and could effectively target land-based adversaries. Each of the four turrets on the USS Iowa contained three 16-inch guns, each barrel being a staggering 66 feet 8 inches long and weighing a massive 133.95 tons.
These guns, while formidable, were designed for mobile use on ships and had to be meticulously maintained to be operational. Currently, all remaining USS Iowa-class battleships are preserved as museums but still required to be in a state of readiness. This brings into question the practicality of such a weapon on land, where different challenges and considerations apply.
Comparison with Land Artillery
Comparing the USS Iowa’s 16-inch gun to other land-based artillery systems, it becomes evident that these naval weapons are not practical for land use. For instance, the M65 Atomic Cannon, built in the United States during the mid-20th century, was another massive weapon weighing 83.3 tons, without the prime movers. In contrast, a single 16-inch barrel of the USS Iowa weighs only 50 tons less. The sheer size and weight of these naval guns make them highly impractical for transport on land.
The logistics of moving such artillery pieces would be cumbersome. The M65 needed two prime movers, making it challenging to transport effectively. Another formidable weapon is the Schwerer Gustav, a German super-heavy railway gun used in World War II. This weapon weighed an astounding 1,490 tons, had a crew of 250, and required 3 days to set up. Additionally, it would require substantial support from other troops and the construction of specific rail tracks to move it. Even with existing rail systems, setting up such a massive weapon would be a monumental task.
Practicality of Large Field Artillery
The concept of using similar naval artillery on land is not only impractical but also highly inefficient. The sheer size of these weapons requires specialized equipment, prime movers, and a substantial logistical support network. These factors make such weapons highly susceptible to bogging down in muddy terrains, which would render them ineffective during rainy conditions.
Moreover, the logistical support required to move and maintain such massive artillery pieces would be incredibly resource-intensive. This includes not only the transportation and setup but also the protection from enemy air attacks, requiring additional personnel and resources. The German Super-Train was designed with a massive support infrastructure, including 2,500 troops to assist in moving and defending it, highlighting the impracticality of such a setup in a conventional battlefield environment.
Modern Solutions for Land Artillery
Given the impracticalities of such large artillery pieces, modern land-based artillery systems have evolved to be more practical and efficient. For example, the M198 155 mm howitzer is a widely used NATO standard artillery piece that is more easily transported and maintainable. Its weight is significantly lighter than the USS Iowa’s 16-inch gun, and it can be quickly maneuvered to various positions, making it far more adaptable to different terrains and combat scenarios.
Moreover, advancements in technology have led to the development of precision-guided munitions, which can vastly increase the effectiveness of modern land-based artillery without the need for large, cumbersome weapons. These systems can deliver accurate and devastating strikes with enhanced mobility and reduced logistical burdens.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the 16-inch guns from the USS Iowa were highly effective in their intended maritime role, they are not practical for use on land due to their large size, weight, and the logistical nightmare that would accompany their transport and use. Instead, modern land-based artillery systems, such as the M198 155 mm howitzer, offer a more practical and efficient solution for land-based combat operations.