Which type of breech block is utilized in the M777A2?

The M777A2 utilizes a screw block interrupted thread breech block, which is designed to manage the high pressures encountered during firing effectively. This type of breech block offers several advantages, including a reliable and secure locking mechanism that ensures the breech is tightly sealed when the weapon is fired. The interrupted threads facilitate a quicker operation to open and close the breech, allowing for shorter loading times between shots.

This breech design is crucial in artillery as it contributes to the overall speed and efficiency of operation while maintaining safety standards. The screw block interrupted thread mechanism is prevalent in modern artillery systems due to its effectiveness in handling the stresses associated with high-velocity projectile launches, making it particularly suitable for the M777A2 Howitzer's operational requirements.

Other breech block types, such as swinging blocks or sliding blocks, serve different functionalities and may be suited for specific types of artillery but do not align with the design parameters and operational capabilities of the M777A2.