Iran supplies American shells for Russian use in Soviet-Era artillery
8:41 AM EDT, April 22, 2024
Photos shared on a Russian Telegram channel display an M106 artillery shell, 8 inches in caliber, alongside gunpowder charges marked as "Izdelie 203," produced in 2023. This type of ammunition is designed for the American M110 howitzer, which Iran, having the capability to manufacture such ammunition, also uses. It appears that Iran has provided these high-caliber shells to Russia, in addition to other military supplies such as artillery ammunition of calibers 122 mm and 152 mm, 122 mm caliber rockets, drones, and ballistic missiles.
The Russians' employment of these shells in Soviet-era 2S7 Pion systems is not unexpected; the Ukrainians had previously utilized ammunition supplied by the USA in their Pions in 2023. It seems the Russians are now taking a similar approach.
American shells powering a Soviet-era colossus – A viable strategy
A question remains whether the American shells fit seamlessly or if adjustments were needed for the chamber length. The M110A1 howitzer could reach targets up to 15.5 miles away using M106 shells. However, with the Pion's longer barrel, it is anticipated that the range might extend to about 24.8 miles, generating higher shell velocities. American shells, weighing 198 pounds and carrying a 33-pound TNT charge, are slightly lighter than their Russian counterparts but still effectively demolish field fortifications.