Difference between revisions of "M109G (Italy)"

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{{About
 +
|about = tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
|usage = other versions
 +
|link = M109 (Family)
 +
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=it_m109g
 
|code=it_m109g
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Italian tank destroyer {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]].
+
The M109, an American-designed self-propelled howitzer, replaced the M44 in the US army in 1961. Italy received M44s post-war as US aid, however with further negotiations Italy later acquired M109s, upgrading some to the M109L standard with OTO Melara 155 mm cannons and adding rammer devices. While not heavily armoured, the M109 could withstand small arms fire and some shell splinters. It reached speeds of 35 km/h and had a range of 216 miles. The Italian army used M109s in peacekeeping operations but phased them out in the early 2000s for the PzH 2000 artillery piece. Leonardo also created an upgrade for the M109 with a longer-range cannon and Italian Vulcano guided munitions.
 +
 
 +
It was introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]]. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' has little to no armour, being able to be penetrated from low calibre autocannon fire, including 14.5 mm HMGs. This does not mean that the M109 is bad; with a powerful 155 mm cannon, its HE shells are enough to overpressure or even penetrate the armour of most tanks. The tank does have a very long reload rate and a poor turret traverse speed, it is recommended using the M109 for ambushes, flanking with allies, launching a HE shell at a weakspot and then retreat to safety to reload. Against heavy tanks, it is recommended to aim for the top of the turret or below the chassis if possible.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 12: Line 19:
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
−
''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''
+
The armour on the M109 is nearly non-existent, being surrounded by 32 mm thick aluminium alloy 5083, which effectively comes down to 13-20 mm RHA. This leaves the vehicle vulnerable to even light machine gun fire from any angle. The weakness of the armour turns into a strong-suit against AP shells that will pass straight through, unable to fuse or create enough spall to inflict major damage. Direct hits from HE and other chemical shells will most likely leave the M109 a burning wreck. The 6 crew members are pretty spaced apart in the turret, giving a plus to crew survivability.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
* Aluminium alloy 5083 (Hull, turret)
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armor (Radiator covers)<!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
Line 22: Line 32:
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || 32 mm (27-74°) ''Upper Glacis''<br>32 mm (0-49°) ''Lower Glacis''
 +
| 32 mm ''Top'' <br> 32 mm ''Bottom'' || 32 mm || 32 mm ''Hull Roof''<br>10 mm ''Radiator Covers''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 32 mm (28-73°) ''Turret front'' <br> 32 mm (4-56°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 32 mm (23-50°) || 32 mm || 32 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || colspan="3" style="text-align:center" | 32 mm || 32 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Suspension wheels - 20 mm (Structural steel of chassis)
 +
* Tracks - 15 mm<!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
  
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''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
 
''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=575|rbMinHp=358}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
Line 48: Line 62:
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
−
{{main|M126 (155 mm)}}
+
{{main|M126E1 (155 mm)}}
  
 
''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
 
''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
Line 54: Line 68:
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M126 (155 mm)|155 mm M126]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[M126E1 (155 mm)|155 mm M126E1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
Line 61: Line 75:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 28 || rowspan="2" | -3°/+75° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 28 || rowspan="2" | -3°/+70° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 9.7 || 13.4 || 16.3 || 18.0 || 19.1 || rowspan="2" | 17.29 || rowspan="2" | 15.30 || rowspan="2" | 14.10 || rowspan="2" | 13.30
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 6.5 || 7.7 || 9.4 || 10.3 || 11.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{{:M126 (155 mm)/Ammunition|M107, M107 (PF), M110}}
+
{{:M126E1 (155 mm)/Ammunition|M107, M107 (PF), M110}}
 +
 
 +
[[File:M109G Ammorack.png|thumb|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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|-
 
|-
 
! Full<br>ammo
 
! Full<br>ammo
 +
!Ammo part
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''28''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''28'''
 +
|Projectiles<br>Propellants
 +
| 24&nbsp;''(+4)''<br>23&nbsp;''(+5)''
 +
| 19&nbsp;''(+9)''<br>17&nbsp;''(+11)''
 +
| 17&nbsp;''(+11)''<br>1&nbsp;''(+27)''
 +
| 1&nbsp;''(+27)''<br>N/A
 +
| No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
 +
 +
* {{PAGENAME}} uses two-piece ammunition, composed of propellant bags (orange) and projectiles (yellow). Both have separate racks.
 +
* Projectiles and propellant bags are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* 4th rack (for the projectiles) and 3rd rack (for the propellants) are first stage ammo rack. It totals 16 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
 +
* Loading 17 (''+11'') shells will keep the hull floor and part of both sides empty of ammo.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| || ___ (___) || ___ || __° || __°
+
| Pintle || 600 (200) || 575 || -10°/+45° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
The M109G features a very powerful armament at its BR, paired with a mediocre platform, chassis and powerplant. But in other to be used effectively, it needs to be played with caution in mind or you might be send back to the menu.
 +
 
 +
The M109G has a very slow reload rate and the armour can be penetrated even by 14.5 mm HMGs, so in order to avoid that, a recommended tactic is flanking with allies, launching a HE shell, preferably at a high value target like a heavy tank, and quickly retreat to reload.
 +
 
 +
The tank can be used as a brawler but can be quickly overwhelmed by superior enemy numbers. For such tactics, it is recommended going with a coordinated squad of other M109s or even better, a mix of heavy and light vehicles, combining destructive firepower with armour and speed. The M109G is overall a very team dependent vehicle, it requires you and your team to do well in order to succeed, that is why it should be played in a more passive playstyle than other vehicles. Avoid rushing capture points since they could be ambushed, and avoid brawling alone; when playing solo, flanking and sniping is your best bet.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Powerful 155 mm cannon, can take out heavy tanks rather effortlessly
 +
* Great elevation angles
 +
* Access to proxy munitions
 +
* (RB) Slightly faster shell velocity than other short-barrelled artillery tanks, may be easier to aim
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Slow turret traverse speed
 +
* Low survivability due to thin armour and munition placement, cannot sustain even 12.7 mm HMG
 +
* Long reload when compared to normal tanks
 +
* (mostly AB) Shell velocity does not let the tank to fire over a hill at short to medium range
 +
* (RB) Bad optics zoom, inadequate for sniping at long distances
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
 
 +
The story of the M109 begins during the late stages of the Cold War, it would be designed due to a need from the American army to completely replace their aging fleet of M44 self-propelled howitzer. The main objectives for the new and improved replacement were for it to be somewhat mobile and have a bigger calibre. Initial prototypes for the M109 would see it armed with a 105 mm cannon, but would later be changed to a 155 mm. It was also chosen to equip the vehicle with a diesel engine which, although it would prove to give less output, was much more reliable so breaking down would not become a common occurrence. It would first officially enter service in the American army by 1961, and would prove to be quite effective on the battlefield.
 +
 
 +
Italy comes into play also, post-war they were lacking in a lot of sectors, so America would be generous enough to supply the Italian army with M44 self-propelled howitzers. However, they also soon desired a heavy SPH that would be mobile enough and be able to be operated in multiple types of environments. Eventually after a lot of discussions, the first batches of M109 is would be acquired by the Italian army in 1962. Initially, part of the deal with Italy included 221 M109s equipped with 155 mm cannons. Other part of the deal saw Italy purchase up to 62 versions of the M109A1B. Some of the original M109s were later upgraded by OTO Melara to the M109L standard which had been modified to utilize the 155 mm cannon made by OTO Melara. Italy improved the combat effectiveness of their M109s by adding a "rammer" which heavily reduced operator fatigue while also increasing the rate of fire of the vehicle.
 +
 
 +
In terms of survivability, the M109 is not the most armoured vehicle there is, but it is said that it could withstand the majority of small arms fire and shell splinters that may happen to hit the vehicle when an enemy performs a counter artillery attack. However, that said, even the weakest HE or HEAT rounds would make short work of the M109, the platform houses its munitions at the back of the turret, so it is safe to say that it would not be able to hold its own against most ground vehicle threats if shot there. In terms of mobility, depending on the version, most M109s can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h, with an overall range of 216 miles. It is powered by a Detroit Diesel 8V71T engine which produces 450 hp.
 +
 
 +
The M109 has been combat proven in many theatres of war all around the world. The Italian army would mostly use the M109 for various missions and peacekeeping operations, for example during the Kosovo War, where it provided much needed artillery fire for the troops on the ground. Most sources however state that the majority if not all M109s that the Italian army had used, have been phased out during the early 2000s for the more modern and stronger PzH 2000 artillery piece.
 +
 
 +
Besides the upgrades done by the Italian army, Leonardo created an upgrade for the M109 which added a new cannon able to fire projectiles at a longer range, alongside with the integration of the new Italian-made guided Vulcano munitions.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=it_m109g Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 132: Line 183:
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
 
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[M109 (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 140: Line 192:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
 
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/news/8537-development-m109-the-king-of-battle-en|[Devblog] M109: The King of Battle]]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 
{{Italy tank destroyers}}
 
{{Italy tank destroyers}}

Latest revision as of 08:21, 30 June 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the tank destroyer M109G (Italy). For other versions, see M109 (Family).
▄M109G
it_m109g.png
GarageImage M109G (Italy).jpg
▄M109G
Italy flag.png Italy
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
6.0 6.0 6.0
Class:
Research:63 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:200 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The M109, an American-designed self-propelled howitzer, replaced the M44 in the US army in 1961. Italy received M44s post-war as US aid, however with further negotiations Italy later acquired M109s, upgrading some to the M109L standard with OTO Melara 155 mm cannons and adding rammer devices. While not heavily armoured, the M109 could withstand small arms fire and some shell splinters. It reached speeds of 35 km/h and had a range of 216 miles. The Italian army used M109s in peacekeeping operations but phased them out in the early 2000s for the PzH 2000 artillery piece. Leonardo also created an upgrade for the M109 with a longer-range cannon and Italian Vulcano guided munitions.

It was introduced in Update "Kings of Battle". The ▄Obice da 155/23 Semovente M109G has little to no armour, being able to be penetrated from low calibre autocannon fire, including 14.5 mm HMGs. This does not mean that the M109 is bad; with a powerful 155 mm cannon, its HE shells are enough to overpressure or even penetrate the armour of most tanks. The tank does have a very long reload rate and a poor turret traverse speed, it is recommended using the M109 for ambushes, flanking with allies, launching a HE shell at a weakspot and then retreat to safety to reload. Against heavy tanks, it is recommended to aim for the top of the turret or below the chassis if possible.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull32 / 32 / 32
Turret32 / 32 / 32
Crew6 people
Visibility96 %

The armour on the M109 is nearly non-existent, being surrounded by 32 mm thick aluminium alloy 5083, which effectively comes down to 13-20 mm RHA. This leaves the vehicle vulnerable to even light machine gun fire from any angle. The weakness of the armour turns into a strong-suit against AP shells that will pass straight through, unable to fuse or create enough spall to inflict major damage. Direct hits from HE and other chemical shells will most likely leave the M109 a burning wreck. The 6 crew members are pretty spaced apart in the turret, giving a plus to crew survivability.

Armour type:

  • Aluminium alloy 5083 (Hull, turret)
  • Rolled homogeneous armor (Radiator covers)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 32 mm (27-74°) Upper Glacis
32 mm (0-49°) Lower Glacis 		32 mm Top
32 mm Bottom 		32 mm 32 mm Hull Roof
10 mm Radiator Covers
Turret 32 mm (28-73°) Turret front
32 mm (4-56°) Gun mantlet 		32 mm (23-50°) 32 mm 32 mm
Cupola 32 mm 32 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels - 20 mm (Structural steel of chassis)
  • Tracks - 15 mm

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB62 / 13 km/h
RB and SB57 / 12 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight24.5 t
Engine power
AB773 hp
RB and SB405 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB31.6 hp/t
RB and SB16.5 hp/t

Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 62 13 24.5 575 773 23.47 31.55
Realistic 57 12 358 405 14.61 16.53

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 297 → 4 279 Sl icon.png
RB3 832 → 4 973 Sl icon.png
SB5 020 → 6 515 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications52 700 Rp icon.png
90 700 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training57 000 Sl icon.png
Experts200 000 Sl icon.png
Aces800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces520 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 190 / 250 % Sl icon.png
172 / 172 / 172 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 500 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
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Filters
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Transmission
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Engine
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Improved Parts
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Improved FPE
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Crew Replenishment
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Smoke grenade
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Horizontal Drive
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155mm_M110_Smoke_ammo_pack
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Adjustment of Fire
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155mm_M107_HE_PF_ammo_pack
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Elevation Mechanism
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Armaments

Main armament

155 mm M126E1 cannon
Ammunition28 rounds
First-order16 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
17.3 → 13.3 s
Vertical guidance-3° / 70°
Main article: M126E1 (155 mm)

Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: {{main|Name of the weapon}}. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.

155 mm M126E1 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 28 -3°/+70° ±180° - 9.7 13.4 16.3 18.0 19.1 17.29 15.30 14.10 13.30
Realistic 6.5 7.7 9.4 10.3 11.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
M107 HE 61 61 61 61 61 61
M107 (PF) HE-VT 61 61 61 61 61 61
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
M107 HE 684 43.1 0.3 0.1 9.14 79° 80° 81°
Proximity-fused shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Arming
distance (m) 		Trigger
radius (m) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
M107 (PF) HE-VT 684 43.1 0 0 300 3 9.14 79° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Screen radius
(m) 		Screen deploy
time (s) 		Screen hold
time (s) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
M110 684 44.63 21 5 30 50
Ammo racks of the M109G (Italy)

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		Ammo part 1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
28 Projectiles
Propellants 		24 (+4)
23 (+5) 		19 (+9)
17 (+11) 		17 (+11)
1 (+27) 		1 (+27)
N/A 		No

Notes:

  • M109G (Italy) uses two-piece ammunition, composed of propellant bags (orange) and projectiles (yellow). Both have separate racks.
  • Projectiles and propellant bags are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • 4th rack (for the projectiles) and 3rd rack (for the propellants) are first stage ammo rack. It totals 16 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
  • Loading 17 (+11) shells will keep the hull floor and part of both sides empty of ammo.

Machine guns

12.7 mm M2HB machine gun
Ammunition600 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate575 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 45°
Main article: M2HB (12.7 mm)

Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.

12.7 mm M2HB
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 600 (200) 575 -10°/+45° ±180°

Usage in battles

The M109G features a very powerful armament at its BR, paired with a mediocre platform, chassis and powerplant. But in other to be used effectively, it needs to be played with caution in mind or you might be send back to the menu.

The M109G has a very slow reload rate and the armour can be penetrated even by 14.5 mm HMGs, so in order to avoid that, a recommended tactic is flanking with allies, launching a HE shell, preferably at a high value target like a heavy tank, and quickly retreat to reload.

The tank can be used as a brawler but can be quickly overwhelmed by superior enemy numbers. For such tactics, it is recommended going with a coordinated squad of other M109s or even better, a mix of heavy and light vehicles, combining destructive firepower with armour and speed. The M109G is overall a very team dependent vehicle, it requires you and your team to do well in order to succeed, that is why it should be played in a more passive playstyle than other vehicles. Avoid rushing capture points since they could be ambushed, and avoid brawling alone; when playing solo, flanking and sniping is your best bet.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful 155 mm cannon, can take out heavy tanks rather effortlessly
  • Great elevation angles
  • Access to proxy munitions
  • (RB) Slightly faster shell velocity than other short-barrelled artillery tanks, may be easier to aim

Cons:

  • Slow turret traverse speed
  • Low survivability due to thin armour and munition placement, cannot sustain even 12.7 mm HMG
  • Long reload when compared to normal tanks
  • (mostly AB) Shell velocity does not let the tank to fire over a hill at short to medium range
  • (RB) Bad optics zoom, inadequate for sniping at long distances

History

The story of the M109 begins during the late stages of the Cold War, it would be designed due to a need from the American army to completely replace their aging fleet of M44 self-propelled howitzer. The main objectives for the new and improved replacement were for it to be somewhat mobile and have a bigger calibre. Initial prototypes for the M109 would see it armed with a 105 mm cannon, but would later be changed to a 155 mm. It was also chosen to equip the vehicle with a diesel engine which, although it would prove to give less output, was much more reliable so breaking down would not become a common occurrence. It would first officially enter service in the American army by 1961, and would prove to be quite effective on the battlefield.

Italy comes into play also, post-war they were lacking in a lot of sectors, so America would be generous enough to supply the Italian army with M44 self-propelled howitzers. However, they also soon desired a heavy SPH that would be mobile enough and be able to be operated in multiple types of environments. Eventually after a lot of discussions, the first batches of M109 is would be acquired by the Italian army in 1962. Initially, part of the deal with Italy included 221 M109s equipped with 155 mm cannons. Other part of the deal saw Italy purchase up to 62 versions of the M109A1B. Some of the original M109s were later upgraded by OTO Melara to the M109L standard which had been modified to utilize the 155 mm cannon made by OTO Melara. Italy improved the combat effectiveness of their M109s by adding a "rammer" which heavily reduced operator fatigue while also increasing the rate of fire of the vehicle.

In terms of survivability, the M109 is not the most armoured vehicle there is, but it is said that it could withstand the majority of small arms fire and shell splinters that may happen to hit the vehicle when an enemy performs a counter artillery attack. However, that said, even the weakest HE or HEAT rounds would make short work of the M109, the platform houses its munitions at the back of the turret, so it is safe to say that it would not be able to hold its own against most ground vehicle threats if shot there. In terms of mobility, depending on the version, most M109s can reach speeds of up to 35 km/h, with an overall range of 216 miles. It is powered by a Detroit Diesel 8V71T engine which produces 450 hp.

The M109 has been combat proven in many theatres of war all around the world. The Italian army would mostly use the M109 for various missions and peacekeeping operations, for example during the Kosovo War, where it provided much needed artillery fire for the troops on the ground. Most sources however state that the majority if not all M109s that the Italian army had used, have been phased out during the early 2000s for the more modern and stronger PzH 2000 artillery piece.

Besides the upgrades done by the Italian army, Leonardo created an upgrade for the M109 which added a new cannon able to fire projectiles at a longer range, alongside with the integration of the new Italian-made guided Vulcano munitions.

Media

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See also

Related development

External links


Italy tank destroyers
  Italy
M41  75/18 M41 · 75/32 M41 · 90/53 M41M
M42  75/34 M42
M43  105/25 M43 · M43 "G.C.Leoncello" · 75/34 M43 · 75/46 M43
Wheeled  Lancia 3Ro (100/17) · AS 42/47 · Breda 90/53 · Breda 501
Other  L3/33 CC · 47/32 L40
Germany  ▄StuG III G
USA  M36B1 · ▄M109G · M113A1 (TOW)
  Hungary
Zrínyi  Zrinyi I · Zrinyi II
USSR  ◔2S1

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