Italeri M108G (1/35) 6518

The M-108 self-propelled artillery was introduced, in the early 60s, to satisfy a specific need of U.S. Army: develop a high mobility howitzer able to replace the aging M52. The M-108 mobility, achieved thanks to the powerful diesel turbocharged 8-cylinders engine and to the efficient suspension system, was its main strength. The armament was formed by the 105 mm howitzer and by one 12.7 mm machine gun, fitted to the rooftop, for close defense purposes. The solution based on 105 mm howitzer as main gun, however, was not so successful. U.S. Army decided in fact very soon to adopt bigger caliber howitzers characterized by more effectiveness. The M-108 was used during the Vietnam War but it was gradually flanked and then replaced by self-propelled 155 mm. and 203 mm. artilleries.