M102 105mm Howitzer
Add a highly detailed American artillery piece to your collection with the M102 105mm Howitzer from Blueprint to Print 3D. Designed as a lightweight, mobile field gun, its compact profile and distinctive firing platform make it ideal for artillery positions, air-mobile scenes and modern military displays. Historically, the M102 is a post-Second World War weapon rather than a World War II design.
Historical Role
Introduced into United States service during the 1960s, the M102 was developed to replace the heavier M101A1 105mm howitzer. Its reduced weight made it particularly suitable for rapid deployment by transport aircraft and helicopter. The weapon saw extensive service during the Vietnam War, providing responsive indirect fire support to infantry operating from remote firebases. It was later used by American forces during the Gulf War and also served with several allied nations.
Distinctive Appearance
The M102 is recognisable by its long, slender barrel, low carriage, compact wheels and circular firing platform. When deployed, the platform allowed the howitzer to be traversed through a full circle, enabling crews to engage targets in different directions without completely repositioning the weapon. These features give the model a noticeably lighter and more streamlined appearance than earlier American 105mm field howitzers.
Modelling Uses
This model is well suited to Vietnam-era firebases, helicopter landing zones, artillery emplacements and later Cold War or Gulf War scenes. It can also serve as a detailed military load or static exhibit on model railways. With multiple scales available, it is an adaptable choice for dioramas, wargaming displays and collectors of American artillery equipment.
Fun Fact
The M102 was not limited to ground service: modified examples were installed aboard AC-130 gunships, giving these aircraft a powerful side-firing 105mm artillery capability.
Available Scales
Available in 1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35 scales.
Finish Options
Choose from Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, or Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
