The Ukrainian perspective "self-propelled gun" has started fire tests. Yesterday, May 27, portal defence-ua.com he reported that the Bogdana self-propelled gun has already fired more than 50 shots at the Shiroky Lan training ground.
So far, we are talking about preliminary tests, during which the real capabilities of weapons and compliance with the stated requirements are evaluated. At the same time, the details of the tests remain classified until their completion and final assessments.
Self-propelled gun 2S22 " Bogdana»
Image source: defence-ua.com
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine ordered the development of "Bogdana" to the enterprise "Kramatorsk Heavy Machine Tool Plant" (KZTS) in 2016. Two years later, the prototype self-propelled gun was shown during the military parade in honor of the Independence Day of Ukraine. The project for the development of the 2S22 Bogdana wheeled self-propelled gun was planned to be completed in 2020. But due to a series of bureaucratic delays and problems with the purchase of NATO 155-mm shells, these deadlines have shifted.
According to Defense Express, both 155-mm M107 and Mod 272 (inert) shells made in Turkey and 155-mm artillery shells purchased from the Czech company Excalibur Army are used in the preliminary tests of the Bogdana self-propelled gun. Previously, only seven volleys were fired from the Bogdana, including hydro and blank shots.
If the preliminary tests are successful, "Bogdan" is expected to undergo state tests, in which it will be necessary to pass the test "on the floor" - to release 1,400 shells. It is known that these ammunition have already been purchased from the Excalibur Army. In theory, the new Ukrainian self-propelled gun will be able to hit targets at a distance of about 40 km with basic ammunition and at 60 km with active-jet ammunition.
The Bogdana self-propelled gun has a 155 mm "NATO standard"gun . The gun can fire at a rate of six rounds per minute when using an automatic loader. At the same time, all control is carried out using a special electronic remote control. "Bogdana" is built on the basis of a 6-wheel truck "KrAZ" of increased cross-country capability. The truck is equipped with a paired armored cab, which accommodates the driver and the artillery crew. At the same time, further replacement of the chassis is possible.