WW2 Weapons: Past to Present – Their Continued Relevance in Modern Warfare
While it may seem surprising, a significant number of weapons and designs from World War II (WW2) are still in use today across various conflict zones around the globe. From small mortars and machine guns to older artillery pieces and even advanced submachine guns, many of the weapons from the past continue to serve in modern warfare.
Overview of WW2 Weapons in Modern Warfare
More than you might expect, weapons from the World War II era are still being utilized in modern conflicts. The MG3, a derivative of the MG42, continues to be manufactured and used for various military operations, alongside the famous Vickers/Maxim and Lewis guns, which are still pressed into service in areas like Ukraine, Syria, and Palestine. These weapons, which include the M101 105mm howitzers and Soviet M-30 howitzers, demonstrate the enduring utility of these designs. While tanks and aircraft are the staples of modern warfare, many of the smaller and medium mortars, ranging from 2-inch mortars to 60mm and 75/81/82/88mm varieties, have remained devastatingly effective.
Dependence on WW2 Designs
Despite the technological advancements in the past decades, the design and effectiveness of pistols, rifles, and other small arms from that era have remained relatively unchanged. The small and medium mortars, in particular, remain highly effective for area suppression. These weapons are not just relics of the past, but functional tools that continue to provide significant advantage on the battlefield. The Bren Gun, a .303-inch machine gun, is another example of a WW2-era weapon that continues to find utility in modern conflicts.
Mainstream Usage: Submachine Guns and More
Interestingly, submachine guns, such as the StG44 or the Schmeisser, have found a place in modern warfare. In situations where supply is limited and the production of more advanced weapons is hindered, cheaper and effective solutions like submachine guns are used to arm non-frontline troops. This strategy allows for the allocation of more expensive mainline weapons to frontline troops, thus optimizing the use of available resources. Weapons like the Lewis gun, the MG42, and even the MAC machine pistol have been observed in recent conflicts such as Syria, highlighting the continued relevance of these designs.
Artillery: The Legacy Continues
Artillery pieces from the WW2 era, such as the M101 105mm howitzer and Soviet M-30 howitzers, remain in active service. While these pieces may seem outdated compared to modern artillery, they continue to provide substantial firepower. This is particularly evident in conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine, where aging but effective artillery pieces are still in critical use.
Recent Examples: Ukraine and Syria
The current war in Ukraine provides a vivid example of the continued use of WW2-era weapons. In Ukraine, small arms like the StG44 and submachine guns such as the Schmeisser have been issued to non-combat roles, such as medics and radio operators. This strategic allocation of cheaper weapons allows front-line troops to have access to more advanced and costly weapons. Additionally, in Syria, weapons like the M-30 howitzers continue to play a vital role in modern military operations, demonstrating their enduring effectiveness.
Handguns and Shoulder Weapons
While handguns from WW1 have seen only minor changes, they remain effective for sniping and close-range engagements. The Mosin Nagant, in particular, has proven to be a reliable and deadly weapon for snipers. Simo Hayha, one of the deadliest snipers in history, used this weapon with great success. Even the formula for unguided bombs, which were effective in WWII, can still be used for modern area suppression, provided the task requires it.
The 50 Cal. – A Staple in Modern Warfare
The .50cal machine gun, also known as the Browning M2, continues to be used in various roles. Its effectiveness and widespread use make it a staple in modern warfare, reflecting the longevity of its design. This weapon, which has seen use in conflicts across the globe, continues to be a cornerstone of modern military arsenals.
Modern Relevance of WW2 Designs
Many of the designs from the WW2 era have found their way into modern military arsenals due to their reliability and effectiveness. Weapons like the MG42, 50 cal. machine gun, and even the Schmeisser submachine gun are still in use, demonstrating their continued relevance. The M-30 howitzer and M101 105mm howitzer, despite being older designs, continue to provide significant firepower. This enduring effectiveness highlights the enduring value of these weapons in modern military operations.
While the technology and design of pistols and rifles have not undergone significant changes, their effectiveness remains. The Mosin Nagant, which has seen extensive use in the Russo-Ukrainian war, is a testament to the reliability of this weapon in modern conflicts. Other designs, such as the Ithaca Model 37 shotgun, though not as widely used, still hold a place in the defense arsenal due to their close-range effectiveness.
Overall, the legacy of WW2 weapons lives on in modern warfare. Their continued use highlights the lasting impact of military innovation and design from the past, ensuring that even the weapons of a bygone era remain relevant on contemporary battlefields.