The RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers bound for Ukraine are undergoing upgrades following feedback from the Ukrainian Armed Forces, KNDS Germany CEO Ralf Ketzel shared in an interview with Deutsche Welle.
Kyiv became the first foreign operator of the advanced artillery weapon after receiving its first of 54 RCH 155s from Germany in January. The system then underwent testing and trials with Ukrainian soldiers.
Technical issues were raised, along with the need for integration with the country’s combat management system and command and control systems for coordinated operations.
Neither side has previously discussed integration because they were focused on other issues, said Ketzel.
Currently, KNDS is refining the artillery system together with Ukraine, ensuring that they are ready for use on the frontlines once delivered.
The CEO floated the possibility of deliveries coming within the year if everything gets resolved, but emphasized that the Ukrainian military reserves the right to make an official announcement when deliveries occur.
Finally, Ketzel revealed that the company is developing a vehicle capable of shooting down drones while moving and featuring the same mobility as the RCH 155.
‘Engineering Masterpiece’
The KNDS Germany chief quoted German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in describing the RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer as an “engineering masterpiece.”
Built on an eight-wheeled Boxer armored chassis, the system only requires a crew of two and fires while moving.
It features a fully automated and remotely controlled turret artillery module that mounts the 155mm/L52 main gun system, capable of shooting at 8 rounds per minute.
KNDS states that the RCH 155’s effective firing distance varies by ammunition type.
While base-bleed and V-LAP shells provide ranges between 40 to 54 kilometers (25 to 33 miles), advanced smart munitions like the Vulcano and Excalibur can push ranges even further.
Measuring 10.5 meters (34.45 feet) long, 2.99 meters (9.81 feet) wide, and 3.61 meters (11.85 feet) tall, the howitzer has a total weight of 40 tons.
Powered by an MTU diesel engine delivering up to 600 kilowatts (815 horsepower), it can achieve speeds of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour with an operational range of 700 kilometers (435 miles).
Aside from Ukraine, Switzerland selected the RCH 155 to replace its aging M109 self-propelled howitzer in November 2024.
