leFH

leFH is a German abbreviation that typically refers to a specific type of artillery piece. The designation "leFH" itself breaks down into "le" for leicht (light) and "FH" for Feldhaubitze (field howitzer). Therefore, leFH directly translates to "light field howitzer."

The most commonly associated artillery piece with this designation is the leFH 18, and its successors. The leFH 18 was a 10.5 cm light field howitzer developed in Germany in the 1920s and 1930s and saw extensive service during World War II. It was designed to be relatively mobile and versatile, capable of both direct and indirect fire. Its effectiveness and widespread use made it a staple of German artillery formations.

Over time, improvements and modifications led to further variants. For instance, the leFH 18M and leFH 18/40 were later versions incorporating upgrades to range and performance. The post-war era also saw the development of artillery pieces that continued this lineage, often retaining the "leFH" designation in some contexts, though specific models and their calibers could vary. The concept of a light field howitzer remained a crucial component of artillery doctrine for many nations.