Ukraine set to receive revolutionary RCH 155 artillery in 2024
Before the end of 2024, Ukraine will receive the RCH 155 self-propelled artillery. This weapon has not been used in combat by any military in the world so far. We explain its capabilities.
According to the Army Recognition portal, German General Christian Freuding confirmed the planned transfer. The statement about the RCH 155 is part of a video published on the official Bundeswehr profile on YouTube.
The first RCH 155s soon in Ukraine
At the moment, it is not clear how large the first batch of RCH 155s to be sent to Ukraine before the end of this year will be. It will certainly not include all of these systems, as earlier information indicated that the Franco-German consortium KNDS will produce as many as 54 units of the RCH 155 for Ukraine.
This weapon is expected to be a significant boost for the Ukrainians. The RCH 155 is a modern weapon with unique capabilities that no other howitzers in the world offer. It is presented this way in part due to its ability to fire while on the move, which is a complete novelty in this equipment category. In this respect, it surpasses even the Polish Krabs. Unlike most NATO artillery systems, the RCH 155 also differs in its chassis and wheeled (not tracked) traction.
What capabilities does the RCH 155 provide?
The designers used a 155 mm calibre barrel with a length of 52 calibres. In addition, the turret accommodates an ammunition magazine (30 shells and propellant charges) and an automatic loader. Using standard ammunition, the crew can expect a range of up to about 40 km (with V-LAP rounds, it will be greater). The rate of fire is estimated at nine rounds per minute.
Despite being over 10 metres long and weighing about 39 tonnes, the RCH 155 is expected to have very good mobility. According to the designers, the 8x8 drive and powerful engine will ensure a maximum speed of up to 100 km/h. For comparison, Polish Krabs reach up to about 70 km/h. On a single fuel tank, the RCH 155 can cover a distance of up to about 700 km.
The Army Recognition portal noted that Ukrainian soldiers will be the first to test this highly automated artillery system in combat conditions. The effects of using the RCH 155 against Russian forces will likely be closely monitored by other countries interested in acquiring the RCH 155 for their armies. Currently, among NATO artillery in Ukraine are the German PzH 2000, French CAESARs, and Polish AHS Krab.
