Short cannon is a term used to describe two types of artillery weapons, the HOWITZER and the MORTAR. A HOWITZER is an artillery weapon that is capable of firing shells at a high angle, allowing it to reach targets behind obstacles or in difficult terrain. A MORTAR is a short-barreled artillery weapon that fires shells at a low angle, making it ideal for use in close quarters. Both weapons are used by the military to provide support fire for infantry and other ground forces.