M5 3" Towed Tank Destroyer Platoon

The M5 3" Gun, an anti-tank weapon, was developed by the US by adapting the T9 3" anti-aircraft gun. In late 1940, the US Ordnance Corps began modifying the T9, combining its barrel with the horizontal sliding block breech, hydropneumatic recoil system, and split-trail carriage of the M2 105mm howitzer. The prototype, designated T-10, underwent trials in September 1941, proving to be a significant improvement over existing US anti-tank guns. After addressing minor issues, it was adopted as the M5 3in Gun on carriage M1. Despite initial reluctance from army branches due to its weight and preference for self-propelled weapons, production began in December 1942. In November 1943, a modified carriage, the M6, was standardized, replacing the flat shield with a sloped one. By January 1944, all existing guns were upgraded to the M6 carriage. A total of 2,500 guns were produced during the war. In March 1943, Army Ground Forces command ordered the conversion of self-propelled tank destroyer battalions to towed guns, with half eventually being towed. The M5 3in gun provides the US infantry with effective anti-tank firepower, with a range of 32"/80cm, rate of fire of 2, and anti-tank and firepower ratings of 12 and 3+, respectively. Its gun shield offers protection under fire, although it is quite heavy and cumbersome, classifying it as Immobile.

• Effective Range: 32 inches/80 cm; Rate of Fire: 2; Anti-tank Capability: 12, Firepower: 3+
• Gun Shield Provides Defensive Cover
• Heavy and Cumbersome, Immobile