Germany now supplies Ukraine with novel RCH-155 howitzers
The German government has confirmed for the first time that Ukraine has received a number of RCH-155 self-propelled howitzers, Bild reported on Aug. 4.
German officials have officially disclosed that Ukraine has received RCH-155 self-propelled howitzers, according to Bild. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius made the announcement during a visit to a KNDS production facility in Kassel, where the artillery systems have been manufactured since 2022. Pistorius affirmed the high regard Ukrainian forces hold for the wheeled RCH-155.
Earlier, German authorities had only confirmed that Ukrainian crews were undergoing training on the RCH-155 in Germany; the actual transfer and any combat use remained undisclosed. The RCH-155 is among the most sophisticated self-propelled artillery systems globally, offering the advantage of firing while in motion, which enhances survivability and makes it more challenging for enemy artillery or drones to target.
It can discharge up to nine rounds per minute and engage targets over 50 kilometers (31 miles) away. The vehicle can achieve speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph) and only requires a crew of two due to its automated loading and turret systems. Ukraine is anticipated to receive a total of 54 RCH-155 systems, sufficient to outfit three artillery battalions.
Germany committed to transferring RCH-155s to Ukraine in September 2022; the newspaper Welt had previously reported that 18 howitzers were to be procured, with deliveries planned for 2025.
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