M-50
Overview
M-50
M-50 self-propelled howitzer with 155mm L/28 ordnance in travel position.
Source: Bukvoed -
© GNU Attribution - Share Alike license
Description
Introduction
The M-50 is an early Cold War era self-propelled howitzer of Israeli origin. It was developed in Israel, possibly using French assistance. The M-50 provides self-propelled artillery support, a capability that the Israeli army lacked at the time. The M-50 is based on the chassis of the US World War 2 era Sherman tank.
Design
The M-50 is based on the long hull M4A4 Sherman tank chassis. The chassis was substantially modified by moving the engine towards the front right side of the vehicle. The A low open roof superstructure is mounted at the rear with the ordnance of the French Modèle 50 155mm towed howitzer. Over time existing vehicles were upgraded with HVSS suspension and a new diesel engine.
Firepower
The M-50 uses the 155mm 30-caliber ordnance of the Modèle 50 towed gun. The maximum range is 17.6 km with French Mle 1956 high explosive shells. The maximum rate of fire is about 5 rpm. A total of 60 round are carried. Usually a .30 M1919A4 machine gun is pintle mounted for self-defense.
Protection
The crew is not protected from all sides by armor since the top and rear of the vehicle are open. The armor itself provides protection from small arms fire and shell splinters. There are no NBC system, smoke grenade dischargers or fire extinguishing system.
Mobility
The Sherman chassis with HVSS suspension and new diesel engine provides an all terrain mobility. The drawbacks of the Sherman chassis are limited speed and range. A Cummins 460 hp diesel engine replaced the older Chrysler A47 30-cylinder gasoline engine.
Users
The M-50 was adopted by the Israelis in the early 1960's and has been used in various conflicts. Since the 1970's it was supplemented by the L-33 which was also based on the Sherman chassis. By the end of the 1970's it was relegated to the reserve role. No M-50 have ever been exported.
Details
Media
M-50
A number of M-50 self-propelled howitzers without new engine during a parade in 1965.
Source: Abraham Amir
Copyright: public domain
M-50
Side view of M-50 self-propelled howitzer showing the armored open roof superstructure.
Source: Bukvoed
Copyright: GNU Attribution - Share Alike license
M-50
Rear view of fighting compartment of M-50 self-propelled howitzer.
Source: Bukvoed
Copyright: GNU Attribution - Share Alike license
M-50
Forward view showing new engine compartment and a selection of 155mm shells.
Source: Bukvoed
Copyright: GNU Attribution - Share Alike license
Related articles
155mm Modèle 50
The French Obusier 155mm Modèle 50 towed howitzer is used as the main armament on the M-50.
L-33 Ro'em
The L-33 is another Israel self-propelled howitzer that uses the M4 Sherman main battle tank chassis.
Browning M1919
For self-defense a .30 caliber M1919A4 machine gun is fitted on a pintle mount.