A radial catapult is an historical siege weapon that makes use of the power saved in twisted cords to launch a projectile. It consists of a body with a central axle, round which a bundle of cords is wrapped. One finish of the cords is connected to the body, whereas the opposite finish is connected to a pouch containing the projectile. When the cords are twisted, they retailer elastic power. When the cords are launched, the power is launched, and the projectile is launched.
Radial catapults have been first developed in historical Greece, and so they have been used extensively in warfare all through the traditional world. They have been notably efficient in opposition to fortifications, as they may hurl giant stones or different projectiles over lengthy distances. Radial catapults remained in use till the event of gunpowder artillery within the Center Ages.