haubitze

Haubitze refers to a type of artillery piece. Specifically, it is a cannon that fires shells in a high trajectory, designed to strike targets behind cover or fortifications. The term is derived from the Czech word "houfnice," which was used for an early form of cannon. Haubitze typically have a shorter barrel length relative to their caliber compared to a gun, and are designed for indirect fire. This allows them to engage targets that are not in direct line of sight. The elevation of the barrel is a key characteristic, enabling the high arc of fire. Modern haubitze are often self-propelled, meaning they are mounted on a tracked or wheeled vehicle for mobility. These vehicles can include both the cannon and its ammunition, making them versatile battlefield assets. The primary role of a haubitze is to provide indirect fire support to ground troops, suppressing enemy positions and destroying targets. They are distinguished from mortars, which also fire in high trajectories, by their larger caliber, longer range, and the use of more powerful propellant charges.