The German TV channel N-TV reports on the significant reinforcement of Ukraine with modern artillery systems, in particular RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers. According to sources close to Western defense circles, Kyiv is receiving a larger number of these defense-important systems than previously known.
The West is equipping Ukraine with the most advanced artillery systems, including the RCH 155, with more self-propelled howitzers being delivered to Kyiv than previously known, German broadcaster N-TV reported. However, it will be some time before they are deployed on the battlefield.
Ukraine has signed a contract with the defense company KNDS for the supply of 54 units of the RCH 155 artillery system. This weapon is one of the most modern artillery systems in the world, “a new standard for modern self-propelled artillery”. The howitzer can conduct accurate fire even on the move and hit targets at a distance of up to 54 km with 155-mm ammunition. The artillery gun module can be controlled remotely in the future. In addition, the RCH 155 is a weapon of the well-known Panzerhaubitze 2000 artillery system, which is already in use in Ukraine.
It has long been clear that Ukraine will receive the latest RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers. However, until now it was only known that 36 units would be delivered. Now, after the KNDS statement, this figure has increased to 54. The German government has issued Ukraine with permission to purchase the first 18 howitzers in the fall of 2022, but deliveries are not expected before 2025. Equipping the Kyiv armed forces with RCH 155 guns is a long-term project.
KNDS also announced that it will produce 78 CAESAR systems for Ukraine this year. They are already in use in the country and have a range of about 70 km.
“The conflict in Ukraine has shown that proven long-range artillery systems are particularly important for delivering precision strikes,” the defense company said.
CAESAR has proven itself as a robust, reliable and easy-to-maintain system worldwide and has become the most ordered modern artillery system. As a result, KNDS has tripled its production rate, now producing six CAESARs per month.
