The M-108 self-propelled artillery was introduced, in the early
'60s, to satisfy a specific need of U.S. Army : develop a high mobility
howitzer able to  replace the aging M52.
The M-108 mobility, achieved thanks to the powerful diesel turbocharged 8-cylinders
engine and to the efficient suspension system, was its main strength. The
armament was formed by the 105 mm howitzer and by one 12.7 mm machine gun,
fitted to the rooftop, for close defense purposes.  The solution based on 105 mm howitzer as main
gun, however, was not so successful. U.S. Army decided in fact very soon to
adopt bigger caliber howitzers characterized by more effectiveness. The M-108
was used during the Vietnam War but it was gradually flanked and then replaced
by self- propelled 155 mm. and 203 mm. artilleries.