Description
This cartridge is similar in external appearance to Cartridge HE M1.
The M360 Howitzer cartridge was designed to provide toxic chemical offensive capability using GB.
The cartridge was a semifixed, central burst GB gas round used for antipersonnel effects. The M360, which resembled the high explosive cartridge in external appearance, was boat-tailed, and the nose was ogival and threaded for an adapter. The adapter provided a tight seal for the chemical contents, held the fuze, and provided a seat for the forward end of the burster tube. The burster casing was thin-walled steel tubing extending from the adapter to the rear of the round cavity. A burster charge ruptured the casing to disperse the contents. The cartridge was used with a point detonating fuze to provide superquick or delay action.
The projectile was gray with one green band, green markings and one yellow band (with an explosive burster). Later models had three green bands.
Functioning
Projectile functioning is dependent upon the fuze used and may function on impact, instantaneous or delay. It can function above ground either at a predetermined height based upon time of flight or function in proximity with the target area. Fuze function detonates the burster charge, resulting in projectile rupture and dispersal of the chemical agent. The liquid agent evaporates, forming a nonpersistent gas to envelope the area.
Hazardous Components
Filler - GB (1.8 lb, 0.82 kg)
Burster - M40 Tetrytol (1.9 lb, 0.86 kg) or M40A1 Comp B (1.12 lb, 0.51 kg)
Physical Data
Length, overall - 31.18 in, 791.9 mm
Length, projectile fuzed - 19.47 in, 494.5 mm
Length, projectile unfuzed - 16 in, 406.4 mm
See Also
PD, M51A4
Source(s)
Old Chemical Weapons and Related Materiel Reference Guide (2018)
Old Chemical Weapons Reference Guide (1998)
TM 9-1300-203, Artillery Ammunition (1967)
