Ukraine deploys first German RCH 155 howitzer after years of delays, boosting long-range artillery
Ukraine has received and deployed its first RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer, according to an independent confirmation, after years of delivery delays. Germany has ordered 54 of the highly automated systems, worth €890 million, each able to fire 155mm rounds to about 70 km depending on ammunition.
Ukraine has taken delivery of a new long-range artillery system, adding to its capabilities in a war where artillery remains central. According to an independent confirmation on 7 September, the country has received and deployed its first RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer after years of delivery delays.
Germany has ordered 54 RCH 155 systems for Ukraine, in three batches of 18, with a total value of €890 million. The reported configuration is a highly automated 155mm/L52 gun system that carries 30 rounds.
Depending on the ammunition used, the RCH 155 can engage targets at ranges of up to about 70 km. That reach allows strikes far beyond the immediate front line, extending the distance at which Ukrainian forces can hit Russian positions and support points.
The arrival of the first unit marks the start of bringing this class of howitzer into Ukrainian service after a protracted delivery process. How quickly the remaining systems can follow will shape the scale of its impact.
Key factors to watch now include reports of how and where the RCH 155 is used, any announcements from Berlin on the delivery schedule for the remaining 53 systems, and indications from Ukrainian forces about how the new gun integrates with existing artillery and ammunition stocks.
Sources
- OSINT