It used the same hull and turret as the 155 mm M109 self-propelled howitzer, and components of the M113 armored personnel carrier.

[2] The M108 howitzer's sole use in combat occurred in the Vietnam War.

This was soon followed by the 1-40th Field Artillery Battalion to Dong Ha Combat Base in October, 1966.

M108s were generally employed from fortified fire bases providing artillery support to units in the field.

Because M108 and M109 howitzers could traverse their main gun 360 degrees, unlike towed artillery, they were ideal for holding fire-base positions, which might be subject to attack from any direction.