ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The 100 mm Field Gun M1944 (BS-3)

The 100 mm Field Gun M1944, also known as the BS-3, was a Soviet anti-tank and field gun developed during World War II. Its design was based on the B-34 naval gun, with the BS-3 being a more mobile and versatile version.

During World War II, the Soviet Union employed the BS-3 in various units, including brigades of light artillery and tank armies. The gun saw action against enemy tanks, as well as being used for general fire support or to attack infantry forces. Its effectiveness was demonstrated during the war, particularly when used against heavily armored German tanks such as the Pz.Kpfw.VI Ausf.E "Tiger" and Pz.Kpfw.V "Panther".

After the war, the BS-3 remained in service with the Soviet Army for an extended period, serving as a basis for the development of more powerful anti-tank guns. The gun was also sold or transferred to other countries, where it continued to be used by various military forces.

In recent years, the BS-3 has seen action in several conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Six-Day War, and the Yom Kippur War. It has been employed by both sides of the Russo-Ukrainian War, with some units still active as of 2025.

The BS-3 is a significant example of Soviet military technology from World War II, demonstrating the country's ability to develop effective anti-tank guns that could counter heavily armored enemy tanks. Its legacy can be seen in modern Russian anti-tank guns, which are based on the same design principles.

### Technical Specifications

* Caliber: 100 mm
* Muzzle velocity: AP/APBC (15.88 kg/34.97 lbs HE/Fragmentation)
* Armor penetration (BR-412B, 30° degrees): 190 mm at 500 m and 170 mm at 1,000 m
* Effective range: Up to 1,093 yards

### Operators

As of 2025, the BS-3 is in service with several countries, including:

* Congo (10 units)
* Cyprus (6 units)
* Kyrgyzstan (18 units, as of 2024)

The gun has also been used by other countries, including India and Mongolia.