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ARTILLERY REGISTER |
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| Type of Gun: |
QF 4.5 inch Howitzer Mark II on Carriage Mark IP (Aust) |
| Location: |
National Artillery Museum, North Fort, Manly, NSW |
| GPS Location: |
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| Serial Number: |
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| Date of Manufacture: |
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| Manufacturer: |
Coventry Ordnance Works |
| Calibre: |
4.5 inch - 114 mm |
| Weight of Projectile: |
35 lb - 15.9 kg |
| Range: |
6,040 metres - 6,600 yards |
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| Historical Specifics: |
The lack of a howitzer at Gallipoli was a critical flaw in the ability of the troops to attack and defend against the Turkish positions. The New Zealand Army had these guns and were heavily relied upon. With the reorganisation of the AIF following its withdrawal from Gallipoli the artillery was organised along British lines and included Howitzer batteries. The Australian Army therefore obtained its first 4.5 inch howitzers whilst at war.
The howitzer proved to be a remarkably good weapon requiring very little changes to its design. In 1939 a number were fitted with pneumatic tyres as part of the mechanisation program. Like the 18 pounder the 4.5 inch howitzer saw service on the Western Front in France during World War I and in the Middle East, Malaya and New Guinea and the defence of Australia in World War II.
This howitzer is the only one of its kind known to still exist in Australia. It had been found in a creek on a property in Victoria and was restored by Army Apprentices under the direction of Major Jack Balsille and presented to the National Artillery Museum. It is presently on long term loan to the Royal Australian Artillery Historical Society Western Australia. |
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| General Information on Gun Type: |
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