The Type 100 was a high explosive mortar shell that was used by Japan during World War II.
Description[]
The Type 100 was typically used with Type 97 Infantry Mortar which had a similar design to the French Stokes design. The round itself had a diameter of 81mm and was filled with around 0.45 kilograms worth of TNT explosive. Meanwhile, the total length of the shell was around 32.6 centimeters. A unique feature of the Type 100 was that it was interchangeable with the American M43 Mortar shell in the American M1 Mortar.[1]
The total weight of the shell was around three kilograms. The range was typically around 2,740 meters, though up to six special waterproof packets could be added to the bottom of the shell to modify ballistic characteristics.[2]
The type of fuse designed to be used with the shell was also designated the Type 100 fuse. It could be set for immediate detonation or delayed action depending on the settings placed using the top cap. The fuse is activated when the nose cap is forced in by the impact, thus breaking the shear wire and moving the primer.[3]
History[]
The Type 100 was initially developed circa 1938 to be put into service alongside the Type 97 Infantry Mortar. Finally entering service in 1940, the Type 100 was quickly put into mass production. Seeing as it became standard ammunition for the weapon, exact production numbers are unknown. However, it is known that the type was produced until the end of the war, continuing to see service with its respective mortar until the very end.
References[]
- ↑ http://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/Japan/IJA/HB/HB-9.html#II
- ↑ http://www.inert-ord.net/jap02h/t100mort/index.html
- ↑ War Department. TM9-1985-5 "Japanese Explosive Ordnance". U.S. Army Technical Manual. (1953)