Description
The M203A1 like the M203 is a Zone 8S charge designed to supplement the standard M3, M4 series, M119, M119A1, and M119A2 charges and to provide extended range for the long-tube 155mm Howitzer M198.
The M203A1 propelling charge is a single increment base ignited charge approximately 30 1/4 inches long. The charge consists of approximately 28 pounds of M31A1E1 stick propellant and a cloth igniter base pad encased in rigid combustible cartridge case end cap. The cloth igniter base pad contains 0.7 ounces of black powder and 1.0 ounce of CBI. The combustible cartridge case consists of nitrocellulose impregnated kraft paper, a stabilizer, a resin binder, and a wear reducing additive. A liner containing a lead foil decoppering agent and wear reducing additive is assembled around the forward end of the propellant bundle inside the combustible case.
The M203A1 Propelling Charge, like the M203, is a charge 8S Propelling Charge developed for extended range in long-tube (M198) 155mm howitzers, This charge consists of one increment of stick propellant and a base igniter pad encased in a full length rigid combustible cartridge case and end cap. The charge also contains a wear-reducing additive and a lead foil decoppering agent. The basic M203 charge is a red bag charge with center core ignition and granular propellant. The M203A1 charge is cooler burning which results in increased cannon tube life and a reduction in flash and blast.
Functioning
No information about functioning.
Hazardous Components
No information about hazardous components.
See Also
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M3 Series
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M4A1
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M4A2
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M119, M119A1
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M119A2
Propelling Charge, 155mm, M203
Source(s)
TM 43-0001-28, Artillery Ammunition (chg 11, 2003)
