Ukraine has received its first RCH-155 self-propelled howitzer from Germany, becoming the first foreign operator of the advanced artillery weapon.
The delivery, overseen by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, underscores Berlin’s commitment to supplying Kyiv with 54 RCH-155 howitzers to bolster its defenses against Russian aggression.
“This delivery is a clear signal that Ukraine can count on our support,” Pistorius stated during the handover ceremony in Kassel, Germany.
The initial agreement, announced in December 2022, confirmed the sale of 18 RCH-155 units to Ukraine to enhance its ground assault capabilities. Subsequent commitments increased the total to 54 units.
While the first howitzer has been delivered, it will initially be used to train Ukrainian operators before being deployed to the battlefield.
‘An Engineering Marvel’
The RCH-155 is widely regarded as one of the most advanced wheeled artillery systems in the world.
It integrates a Boxer armored personnel carrier chassis with an automated artillery turret, offering cutting-edge capabilities.
The system boasts a firing range of 50 kilometers (31 miles) with standard shells, extendable to 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) with advanced Vulcano rounds.
It is also highly mobile, capable of traveling at speeds up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour on or off-road.
Equipped with advanced fire control systems and supported by double-wishbone coil springs and shock absorbers, the RCH-155 is hailed as an “engineering marvel” by some defense analysts and media outlets.
The introduction of the wheeled howitzer to Ukraine is expected to enhance the country’s military capabilities, enabling it to strike enemy targets more effectively and accurately.