13th-Century Gunpowder Bombs

Timeline

1. c. 1250–1270China · ChinaSouthern Song forces defending cities used 'zhentianlei' and 'iron bombs' filled with gunpowder in porcelain jars or iron casings, detonated by fuse to produce fragment casualties—already possessing the basic features of explosive weapons.
2. 1271–1273Xiangfan (modern Xiangyang and Fancheng, Hubei) · HubeiSong forces bombarded Mongol siege engines with thunderclap cannons and fireballs, while Yuan forces replied with counterweight trebuchets and firearms. The density and destructive power of both sides' gunpowder bombs peaked during the six-year siege of Xiangfan.
3. 1274–1280Southern China · South ChinaAround the naval battle of Yashan, warships on both sides were equipped with fire-throwers and explosive firearms. Yuan forces carried captured gunpowder technology into Central Asia, laying the groundwork for the westward spread of gunpowder in the 14th century.