TM-9-2350-311-10
HOWITZER, MEDIUM, SELF-PROPELLED, 155MM; M109A2, M109A3, M109A4 AND M109A5
TECHNICAL MANUAL; OPERATOR’S MANUAL
NOVEMBER 1994
TM-9-2350-311-10 - Page 542 of 775
TM 9--2350--311--10
5--18
Change 6
Table 5--1. 155MM AMMUNITION FOR M109 HOWITZERS — CONTINUED
Authorized
Projectiles
Remarks
Fuzes
Identification
Classification
M549, M549A1,
HERA
WARNING
•
The M549 and M549A1 projectiles are not to be fired if the
obturator is missing or broken as rotating band failure and
short round may result. If the band is displaced and can be
repositioned and remain in the groove, the projectile can be
fired. The basic M119 charge is not to be used with the M549
and M549A1 projectiles as its use will result in rocket motor
ignition failure, causing loss of range (short rounds). Use
M119A1 or M119A2 charges.
•
Standard procedures prohibit firing the M549/M549A1 in the
rocket off mode except in combat emergencies. Remove
rocket cap before loading to activate rocket.
•
A 7000--meter safety zone is required short of the target
because of the possibility of rocket motor non--ignition.
•
If fired, in the rocket off mode, due to emergency situation, a
7000--meter range is required beyond the target because of
the possibility of rocket motor ignition.
•
The M549 projectile may not be fired with the M203 propelling
charge. The M549A1 projectile may be fired with the M203
propelling charge.
NOTE
•
The protective rocket motor cap must be removed from the
projectile before firing to increase the range over that
attainable ballistically.
•
The M549 projectile differs from the M549A1 projectile only in
the type of explosive filler. The M549 projectile is loaded with
composition B and the M549A1 projectile is loaded with TNT.
•
The M549 and M549A1 projectiles have the energy-absorbing
or shock attenuating lifting plug designed to protect the
projectile fuze area against accidental damage. The new plug
has an oversized 3-3/4 inches (9.53 cm) flange. If this lifting
plug is broken at the neck area, the threaded portion of the
plug will remain in the projectile and the projectile cannot be
fuzed. No attempt should be made to extract any portion of a
broken plug from a projectile. The projectile is not to be used
and should be returned to battalion ammunition section.
•
The M549/M549A1 projectile may break--up upon impact with
urban structures and bunkers rendering it an ineffective
penetrator of these targets.
•
Refer to the description of the MK399 MOD 1 fuze in
paragraph 5--2.2a for expected performance against MOUT
targets.
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