Expects Ukraine to receive top-tier military technology
The West is sending Ukraine cutting-edge artillery systems, like the RCH 155, and more of this advanced self-propelled howitzer will go to Kiev compared to what was initially known. It'll take some time before these weapons take the battlefield. Reports also surface about CAESAR howitzers.
Ukraine has inked a deal with KNDS for the acquisition of 54 RCH 155 artillery systems, according to the defense company. This weapon is hailed as the new standard of modern self-propelled artillery. The RCH 155 is one of the most advanced artillery systems globally.
This self-propelled gun can fire accurate shots while moving and strike targets up to 54 kilometers away with its 155mm ammo. The artillery piece module is remotely controlled. As per KNDS's website, thanks to the RCH 155's network-based system architecture, future autonomous driving and operation can be implemented.
The RCH 155 is also the gun used by the already successful Ukrainian artillery system Panzerhaubitze 2000. This gun was installed on the chassis of the modern Boxer armored vehicle. The combat compartment can house two individuals.
Modern artillery weapons typically differ significantly from non-self-propelled guns, even though the latter are still commonly used in the Ukraine conflict. Russia, in particular, has substantial stocks from Soviet times, quickly depleting due to successful Ukrainian attacks. Russian forces also have the modern, tracked system "Malwa" in their ranks. This system was spotted in frontline areas for the first time this month.
First RCH deliveries not until 2025
It's been common knowledge for some time that Ukraine is getting modern self-propelled howitzers of the RCH 155 type. However, it was previously thought that only 36 examples would be provided. With KNDS's announcement, this number has increased to a total of 54.
The German government gave the green light for the purchase of the first 18 self-propelled howitzers by Ukraine in the fall of 2022. However, deliveries aren't expected until 2025. The equipping of Kiev's forces with RCH 155 is a long-term project.
KNDS also announced in its statement that it would manufacture 78 CAESAR systems for Ukraine this year. CAESAR systems are already being used in the conflict-torn country and have a range of roughly 70 kilometers. "The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated that outdated artillery systems with long range are crucial for high-precision strikes," the defense company said.
The CAESAR has proven itself worldwide as robust, reliable, and easy to maintain, and has become the most popular modern artillery system. KNDS has increased production threefold. Today, six CAESAR systems are produced every month.
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The increased number of RCH 155 artillery systems being sent to Ukraine by the West is a response to the ongoing Attack on Ukraine. This escalation in Arms exports is aimed at boosting Ukraine's Defense industry and providing them with advanced weapons like the RCH 155 and CAESAR howitzers, which have proven effective in Wars and conflicts.
The delay in the delivery of the first 18 RCH 155 howitzers to Ukraine until 2025 highlights the need for continued support in the face of ongoing conflicts, as outdated artillery systems with long range remain crucial for high-precision strikes. This underscores the importance of sustained Arms delivery to Ukraine's defense forces.
