On January 13, 2025, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius officiated a landmark ceremony at the KNDS Deutschland facility in Kassel, marking the historic handover of the first RCH 155 self-propelled artillery system to Ukraine. The system, a pinnacle of German engineering, was received on behalf of the Ukrainian Armed Forces by Ukraine’s ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, cementing Germany’s commitment to European security and Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
RCH 155: A Revolutionary Leap in Artillery
The RCH 155 (Remote Controlled Howitzer 155 mm) combines the powerful firepower of the Panzerhaubitze 2000 howitzer with the advanced mobility of the GTK Boxer armored vehicle. This state-of-the-art system offers a fully automated turret operated by a two-person crew, enhancing efficiency and minimizing exposure to enemy threats.
Key features of the RCH 155:
- Mobility and Agility: Built on a wheeled platform, it can quickly reposition on the battlefield and fire on the move, increasing survivability.
- Efficiency: Operated by just a commander and a driver, reducing manpower requirements.
- Enhanced Range: Designed for rapid deployment and long-range precision, vital for modern combat scenarios.
Ukraine becomes the first operator of this cutting-edge system, receiving it even before the German Armed Forces. A total of 54 RCH 155 units will bolster Ukraine’s artillery, with six units slated for delivery in 2025.
Supporting Ukraine’s Defense with Comprehensive Artillery Aid
Germany’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s artillery arsenal doesn’t stop at the RCH 155. The Bundeswehr has pledged to deliver 54 Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzers by 2027, complementing the new RCH systems. Of these, 36 units have already been transferred, with some seeing action on the front lines.
In addition to hardware, Germany has taken a leading role in training Ukrainian forces:
- 420+ Ukrainian soldiers have completed artillery training programs.
- Training covers maintenance, tactical deployment, and operation of advanced systems like the RCH 155 and Panzerhaubitze 2000.
A Game-Changer for Germany’s Military and Industry
The RCH 155 isn’t just transformative for Ukraine; it’s poised to become a cornerstone of Germany’s defense strategy. The Bundeswehr plans to acquire 80 units, funded through a special defense budget, as part of its modernization drive for medium forces.
Moreover, Germany’s collaboration with the UK on procurement, evaluation, and optimization of the RCH 155 underlines the system’s significance for NATO allies. This partnership secures hundreds of jobs in both nations, while Kassel’s storied legacy in defense manufacturing continues to shine.
Strengthening European Security Through Partnership
Minister Pistorius highlighted the delivery as a testament to Germany’s leadership in defense and unwavering support for Ukraine. Ukrainian Ambassador Oleksii Makeiev underscored its importance, noting that advanced systems like the RCH 155 are critical for Ukraine’s ability to defend itself and contribute to enduring partnerships.
The RCH 155’s debut symbolizes more than technological prowess—it represents a united front in the pursuit of European security, stability, and resilience against aggression.
This milestone underlines Germany’s pivotal role in not only equipping Ukraine but also fortifying European defense systems for the challenges of modern warfare.
