Ordnance QF 25-pounder Short

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Ordnance QF 25-pounder Short
Weapon: Ordnance QF 25-pounder Short
Type: Howitzer
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Year Adopted: 1943
Caliber: 88x292mmR
Action: Breech-Loading Cannon
Overall Length (mm): 3960.0
Weight (kg): 1315.00
Effective Range (m): 10000

The Ordnance QF 25-Pounder Short, also known as the 25-Pounder Short Mark I, was a modified variant of the standard QF 25-pounder field gun, designed specifically for use by Australian forces in the challenging terrain of the Pacific theater during World War II. The need for a more compact and portable artillery piece arose due to the dense jungles and rough landscapes of the South Pacific, where standard field guns proved difficult to maneuver. Engineers reduced the overall length of the barrel and mounted the gun on the carriage of the obsolete 18-pounder, creating a lighter and more transportable weapon while maintaining effective firepower.

Production of the 25-Pounder Short was limited, with approximately 213 units manufactured in Australia between 1943 and 1944. It was used primarily by Australian artillery units in the Pacific, particularly in campaigns across New Guinea and other island operations. Although it had a reduced range compared to the standard 25-pounder (maximum range of around 9,500 meters), its mobility and ease of deployment made it well-suited for jungle warfare, where artillery had to be manhandled through rough terrain or carried by pack animals.

While the Ordnance QF 25-Pounder Short was not as widely produced or used as its full-sized counterpart, it played a crucial role in supporting Australian infantry during key battles in the Pacific. Its adaptability in jungle warfare earned it a respected place in military history, and some surviving examples are now displayed in museums and military heritage sites. The design innovations made for this variant influenced future artillery development, demonstrating the importance of modifying equipment to suit specific combat environments.


Related Weapons: Congreve rocket 1.59-inch breech-loading Vickers Q.F. gun, Mk II QF 18-pounder gun Ordnance QF 25-pounder BL 12-pounder 6 cwt gun QF 12-pounder 8 cwt gun

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