In connection with the rearmament efforts, within the framework of an emergency program by the Army High Command (OKH) in 1936, railway cannons with calibers ranging from 15 to 28 cm were demanded. These railway cannons were intended to provide heavy artillery support and enhance the firepower of the German military during that time.
The company Krupp had access to some old naval gun barrels and construction plans for railway artillery that they had produced during World War I. As a result, they received an order to manufacture a series of railway cannons with a caliber of 28 cm. These railway cannons were intended for use in various military operations during World War II.
Krupp produced a total of 13 cannons with a caliber of 28 cm in three different versions between 1936 and 1938. Krupp was a prominent German arms manufacturer during that time, known for producing various weapons and artillery systems.
The “Lange Bruno” railway cannon (E) was indeed created in 1936 based on the 28 cm quick-firing gun L/45. Three pieces of this cannon were manufactured. During World War II, they were utilized by Railway Battery 688. These railway cannons played a role in the German war effort, providing mobile artillery support on the railway lines.
The Heavy Bruno Cannon (E) was indeed produced between 1936 and 1938 in two units, based on the 28 cm coastal gun L/42. It was assigned to railway battery 689. The Heavy Bruno Cannon was a significant artillery piece used by the German military during that time period.
The “Short Bruno” railway cannon (E) was developed between 1937 and 1938, based on the 28 cm quick-firing gun L/40. It was utilized with eight manufactured cannons by the railway batteries 690, 695, 696, and 721. These railway cannons played a role in the German military during that time period.
The “Bruno” railway cannons were being developed by Krupp in 1938. The German Army High Command (OKH) requested an increased range for these cannons, aiming to achieve a maximum range comparable to the 28 cm Kanone 5 (E) cannon. This suggests that the development of the Bruno cannons was focused on enhancing their long-range capabilities.
As this was not possible due to the age of the used barrels, the New Bruno cannon was developed. From 1940 to 1942, three cannons were built. However, the desired range was not achieved, and production was subsequently discontinued in favor of K 5 (E).
