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 567 of 775

TM 9-2350-311-10

5-2 AUTHORIZED MUNITIONS — CONTINUED

5-2.3

Authorized Propelling Charges — Continued

g. M203 Propelling Charge

Use M203 propelling charge in M109A5 howitzers as they are equipped with M284 cannons

assemblies.

Early production of M203 propelling charges are marked charge 8S (i.e., super) Later

production M203 propelling charges are marked charge 8. The propelling charges are

NOTE

ballistically equivalent and should be identified as charge 8 red bag.

A central igniter core in M203 propelling charges extends through the center of the propelling

charge for its entire length. The M203 propelling charges must be stored and transported in a

horizontal position so that any possibility of damage to the core in the form of cracks or splits is

eliminated.

The M203 propelling charge (9) is a charge 8 propelling charge developed for extended range in 155MM howitzer

M109A5 M284 cannon assemblies. This red bag charge consists of one increment with an igniter bag sewn on its base,

a central core igniter extending through the center of the propelling charge, and a flash reducer in front of the propelling

charge. The entire length of the M203 propelling charge is encased in a tight-fitting lacing jacket for added strength and

stability.

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