Image source: topwar.ru
Germany has confirmed that it plans to supply Ukraine with the first RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers based on the Boxer transporter chassis this year. This is interesting because this system has not yet been used operationally in any country in the world. Germany has already stated that it will supply Kiev with a total of 36 RCH 155 howitzers, but now it has been confirmed that they will be delivered this year. In addition to the new RCH 155 guns, 12 Panzerhaubitze 2000 tracked howitzers are also to be delivered this year (which should help make up for the losses of Ukrainian units using this system and may even partially increase their potential) and four Zuzana 2 guns.
However, the RCH 155 delivery declaration is special because this system belongs to a completely new generation. The system uses an automated tower module, of course, with an automatic device for loading missiles and propellant, and the crew consists of only two people remaining in the body of the transporter. When firing standard ammunition with a bottom gas generator, it will hit the target at a distance of more than 40 km. When using special ammunition, such as the M982 Excalibur or M2005 V-LAP missiles, this value may even exceed 50 km. The theoretical rate of fire is 9 rounds per minute. The ammunition consists of 30 shells and 144 modular propellant charges.
The power unit is an 815 hp MTU V8 199 TE21 engine, which allows the Boxer to reach speeds of up to 100 km/h. With a full supply of fuel, the car will travel about 700 km. The RCH 155 tower module will also be mounted on another chassis. Ukrainian howitzers will additionally be equipped with an omnidirectional surveillance system manufactured by Hensoldt of the SETAS type, which allows displaying information on helmet-mounted displays ("see through armor").
In addition to artillery systems, Germany plans to provide Ukraine with 30 more Leopard 1A5 tanks, 400 MRAP vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles and anti-aircraft systems, IRIS-T SLS and SLM anti-aircraft systems (including missiles) and Cheetah artillery systems, a field hospital, medical equipment and small arms in the coming months. Deliveries of various types of logistics equipment are also planned.
Image source: topwar.ru
