The conflict in Ukraine has become a testing ground for cutting-edge military technology, with various defense companies seizing the opportunity to showcase their innovations.
Quickly Set Up For Firing
One notable example is the 2-CT Hawkeye, an ultra-light howitzer produced by AM General, which is currently undergoing combat testing in Ukraine, according to WP.
Since April 2024, Ukrainian forces have been evaluating the 2-CT Hawkeye, a unique 105mm howitzer designed to be mounted on the back of a HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle).
The system can be deployed with hydraulic stabilizers, allowing it to be quickly set up for firing. This configuration is unusual for howitzers, as similar lightweight systems have typically been limited to 120mm mortars.
Innovative Recoil Reduction
The 2-CT Hawkeye stands out for its impressive performance. It offers a firing range of up to 11.6 km with standard shells and approximately 15 km with rocket-assisted projectiles.
In comparison, a 120mm mortar has a maximum range of 8 km with conventional shells and just over 10 km with rocket-assisted ones. This extended range, coupled with its rapid deployment capabilities, makes the 2-CT Hawkeye a significant advancement in artillery technology.
The howitzer is based on the M20 artillery piece and features an innovative recoil reduction system that decreases recoil by up to 70%. This allows it to be mounted on the HMMWV, making it comparable in concept to the French Caesar artillery system.
The mobility of the HMMWV significantly enhances the howitzer’s effectiveness, as it can quickly relocate to avoid counter-battery fire, a critical advantage given the increasing use of artillery radars and drones in modern warfare.
