Germany began delivering advanced wheeled artillery to Ukraine on Monday to strengthen Kyiv’s defense capabilities against Russia.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced during a ceremony in Kassel that Ukraine would receive the new RCH 155 wheeled howitzers ahead of the German military.
“Today we are sending a very strong message, as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine is about to enter its fourth year. Our message is that Ukraine can count on us. Germany is ready to fulfill its responsibilities in Europe,” he said.
Expressing gratitude during the ceremony, Ukrainian Ambassador Oleksii Makeiev underlined Ukraine’s defense needs. “Our requirements are more critical than ever,” Makeiev said.
“When we sit at the negotiating table one day, it will be good to be covered by strong German weapons and to have Germany on our side,” he added.
German defense manufacturer KNDS will provide 54 remote-controlled wheeled howitzer systems, with the initial six units scheduled for delivery in 2025. The RCH 155 system matches the PzH 2000’s firepower while offering superior mobility and operational range, making it a challenging target for enemy forces.
Germany maintains its position as Ukraine’s second-largest military supporter after the US, with total aid reaching €28 billion ($28.6 billion). This support includes various advanced weapons and military equipment such as Leopard 2 battle tanks, Gepard anti-aircraft tanks, Marder combat vehicles, Patriot and IRIS-T air defense systems.
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Germany sends new military support to Ukraine, including Leopard Tanks and IRIS-T Systems
Germany’s recent commitments to Ukraine signal its continued prioritization of military support in the face of ongoing war with Russia. At the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Ramstein, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius reaffirmed Germany’s dedication to supplying advanced weaponry and resources, including IRIS-T air defense systems and Gepard tanks, which have proven critical for Ukraine’s defensive operations.
The delivery of these systems complements earlier commitments such as the RCH 155 howitzers, showcasing Germany’s focus on enhancing Ukraine’s air and ground defense capabilities. These efforts are aligned with a broader strategy to ensure Ukraine has the tools necessary to counter evolving threats, particularly in the air domain where missile and drone attacks remain prevalent.
Supporting NATO and Regional Security
Germany’s planned deployment of Patriot missile units and Bundeswehr personnel to Poland highlights its dual commitment to Ukraine and NATO. By safeguarding logistics hubs critical to Ukraine’s supply chain, Germany strengthens regional stability while ensuring uninterrupted support for Kyiv. This deployment is part of a NATO mission aimed at reinforcing the alliance’s eastern flank.
Adapting to Geopolitical Shifts
Pistorius also addressed concerns regarding the impact of the upcoming Trump presidency on the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. While future U.S. policy remains uncertain, Germany has pledged to maintain its support for Ukraine, regardless of potential shifts in international dynamics or domestic elections.
These measures underscore Berlin’s role as a central player in Ukraine’s defense strategy, emphasizing not only Germany’s military contributions but also its leadership in ensuring sustained European support for Ukraine.
About The RCH 155
The RCH 155 represents the next generation of automated artillery, combining exceptional mobility with unmatched firepower. Built on the proven BOXER chassis, the system features a 155mm/L52 main gun with a combat range of up to 54 kilometers. Its fully automated fire control and loading systems allow rapid and precise operations, while its capability to fire in all directions without external support enhances battlefield versatility.
Key features such as a high-precision navigation system, compatibility with NATO-standard ammunition, and advanced protection against ballistic threats and explosives make the RCH 155 a game-changer for modern combat scenarios. The platform’s potential for future upgrades, including autonomous operation and navigation, further cements its status as one of the most advanced artillery systems in the world.
📌Germany delivers advanced RCH 155 howitzers to Ukraine
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— Defensehere (@defensehere_en) January 13, 2025