The gun was developed between 1923 and 1924 as an alternative to the 75mm field gun and following some modifications to reduce weight, entered service in 1934. A total of 180 were produced but they served until 1945. The gun was designed for long range counter battery fire and was able to fire a 35 pound shell up to 14,200 yards. Given its size, transportation was difficult utilising either a tractor or a 5 ton truck.