Understanding the Bofors 105mm L/62 Tank Gun in the Strv 103 MBT

The Bofors 105mm L74 L/62 tank gun is a critical component of the Swedish Strv 103 Main Battle Tank (MBT), contributing significantly to its combat capabilities. This article delves into the specifications and design considerations of this weapon, focusing on its barrel length and its impact on the tank's overall performance.

Barrel Length and Specifications

The Bofors 105mm L74 L/62 tank gun has a barrel that is 62 times the bore diameter, which translates to a total length of 6510 millimeters, or 6.51 meters (approximately 21.35 feet). To calculate this, we start with the standard diameter of the barrel, which is 105mm, and multiply it by 62 calibres:

105mm x 62 6510mm or 6.51 meters

Converting this to feet, we get approximately 21.35 feet. This might seem long, but in reality, it is comparable in length to a 21-foot-long scaffolding tube.

Comparing with Other Tank Guns

It is worth noting that the Bofors L74 is based on the standard 105mm L7A1, which is slightly shorter at 52 calibres long. However, the L74 was designed to be slightly longer for a marginal increase in muzzle velocity, which allows for a slight increase in penetration with Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot (APDS) rounds. For a greater increase in penetration, the gun would need a faster-burning propellant, a larger chamber for higher pressure, combined with the longer L/62 barrel for higher velocity kinetic rounds, ideally Armour Piercing Fin-Stabilised Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) rounds.

Design Considerations and Strategic Use

The longer barrel size developed for the STRV 103 was a cost-effective and straightforward method to increase the gun's penetration. Additionally, it allowed the Swedish military to leverage NATO 105mm standard APDS stockpiles. In times of war, if the Swedish arms manufacturers could not handle the production of APDS rounds, the country could rely on NATO stockpiles, ensuring a consistent supply of ammunition.

The L/62 barrel length designation indicates that the barrel is 62 times the bore diameter. For a 105mm caliber, this results in a barrel length of approximately 20.6 feet (62 x 4 inches).

Understanding the specifications and design considerations of the Bofors 105mm L/62 tank gun in the Strv 103 MBT is crucial for any military analyst, historian, or enthusiast. This knowledge provides insight into the tank's combat capabilities and the strategic decisions made in its development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bofors 105mm L/62 tank gun in the Strv 103 MBT is an essential piece of equipment that highlights the importance of barrel length in enhancing gun performance. From its standard dimensions to its strategic use, the gun's specifications reflect the balance between cost-effectiveness and combat readiness.