I work on this howitzer, I can answer your questions gigimar, however I cannot provide drawings, the Technical Data Package (TDP) is owned by the US government and is also propriety data to BAE Systems. I quite like my job and have no desire to get fired :-)

Is it true that it can be dropped off the back of a C-130? How long before it is up and gunning after that? If logistics could keep up, could this be an airmobile arty piece?

It might also be intellectual property theft, no doubt the owners, BAE systems would have a view. This sort of theft is rife in those parts of the world, including parts of Europe, where the idea of intellectual property is somewhat novel.

Yes, it can be dropped by C130. Weapon is paletised along with 45 rounds and 60 Charges of varyijng zones. Regarding how long into action after hitting hte ground, all depends on what preparator work had been done at the LZ, 15 minutes would be the norm.

Hey Folks, I want it on a UH-60 sling load! Can it be done? Sincerely, Keith

Yes, the up engined blackhawks can lift the M777, however this will not form part of the operational doctrine for the weapon. It would be a combat emergency situation which would result in this being done. The prototype M777 weapons (known back then as Ultralight Feild Howitzer UFH) weighed 8500lbs a this point the Blackhawk was considered as a prime helo lift asset, howevetr the development of the weapon has increased the weight up to 9300 lbs for the basic weapon, and 9800lbs for the M777A1. The A1 weapon having the digital fire control system. The marines will use the CH53 for ship to shore operation and the army will use the CH47 as the prime helo asset to move the hozitzers. The MV22 Osprey is actually the driving force behind the weight requirememt, 9800lbs being the maximum the osprey can carry the proscribed distance to meet Marine Corp doctrine. I am not at liberty to say how far this is for obvious reasons.

Marines start fielding in May.