Description
French ENTAC Four-Lug Cup Spanner — P/N 2228-70-17 — NSN 5120-14-215-3050
Item Overview
This French four-lug cup spanner was made for maintenance of the ENTAC anti-tank guided missile system. Its hollow cup, four raised lugs, and sliding handle allowed technicians to turn recessed circular collars or caps that could not be reached with a standard wrench. The tool is stamped “2228·70·17,” which is normalized in supply records as part number 2228-70-17.
Identification and Features
This specialized hand tool is cataloged as a spanner wrench, or “clé à ergots” in French. Its identification and drawing number connect it to GIAT Industries and the French ENTAC support system.
- Item: Four-lug cup spanner
- Official name: Wrench, Spanner
- French name: Clé à ergots
- Stamped number: 2228·70·17
- Normalized part number: 2228-70-17
- NSN: 5120-14-215-3050
- Design authority: GIAT Industries, Centre de Satory
- CAGE code: F5308
- Associated U.S. box FSN: 4935-987-2904
- System application: ENTAC anti-tank guided missile
- Tool type: Nonpowered maintenance hand tool
How the Spanner Worked
The four lugs around the rim engaged matching notches in a recessed circular retaining collar or cap. The hollow center cleared any shaft, connector, or other part extending through the middle of the collar. A sliding bar passed through the tool body and supplied leverage in either direction. This design helped technicians loosen or tighten the fitted component without damaging its notches or surrounding missile hardware.
ENTAC System Association
The tool’s ENTAC connection is supported by its French GIAT identification, U.S. support-box association, and place within the 2228 drawing-number family. Another GIAT component from that family, part number 2228-8-31, is cataloged as an ENTAC tail body. Together, these records identify this spanner as specialized support equipment for the French missile system rather than a general-purpose shop wrench.
Weapon System History
ENTAC was short for “Engin Téléguidé Anti-Char,” meaning remotely guided anti-tank weapon. France developed the wire-guided missile during the 1950s, and the French Army adopted it in 1957. The missile was stored and launched from a box connected to an operator’s control station. The operator watched the missile in flight and guided it toward the target with a hand control while commands traveled through wires trailing behind the missile.
U.S. Army History and Use
The U.S. Army began testing ENTAC missiles in 1959 and selected the system in 1961 as a replacement for the French SS-10 missile. The American version was designated MGM-32A and served as an interim anti-tank weapon while the BGM-71 TOW was being developed. American troops used ENTAC in Vietnam, including against fortified positions. The Army declared the system obsolete on April 21, 1969, after which TOW became its main replacement. Specialized tools such as this spanner supported inspection, adjustment, repair, and maintenance throughout the missile’s service life.
Condition
This is a military-surplus ENTAC maintenance tool. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item. This listing is for one four-lug cup spanner with sliding bar only; the ENTAC missile, launcher box, control equipment, U.S. tool box, retaining collar, and other maintenance tools are not included unless specifically pictured or stated.
Ideal For
This specialized GIAT tool is well suited for collections and exhibits covering early guided missiles, French military engineering, and U.S. Army anti-tank weapons of the Vietnam War era.
- ENTAC and MGM-32A missile collections
- French military-tool displays
- U.S. Army missile-system exhibits
- Vietnam War support-equipment collections
- GIAT Industries historical displays
- Military museums and technical research
Approx length 3.5", Approx width 3.5", Approx height 3.5", Approx weight lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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