Ukraine buys weapons from many European countries to stop the Russian invasion. One of the most powerful weapons received is the howitzer, an artillery considered heavy due to its high destructive power.
Learning to use a howitzer takes time. Sometimes months. In the case of the Ukrainians, the training of soldiers and the supply of ammunition is Germany’s responsibility.
What is Howitzer?
Howitzer is a type of modern cannon in which an explosive projectile is fired into a target tube.
It can be used separately outside of an armored vehicle. However, the equipment is most commonly installed inside armored vehicles.
Image: Description / Brazilian Army
In April, the Netherlands announced that it would send a “limited number” of Panzerhaubitze 2000 type armored howitzers to Kiev and could destroy enemies up to 50 km away even in bad weather conditions.
It has an advanced fire control system that uses a ballistic computer, navigation system and GPS for precise shooting. It can shoot up to four shots per minute.
This howitzer was built by a consortium of companies for the German army, but was also purchased by the Netherlands and Greece.
Other models
A classic howitzer is the 2S19-Msta, developed in Russia and put into service in 1989.
It is equipped with 47 caliber, 152 mm pipe and has a range of 28 km. It can fire a variety of ammunition, including grenades.
But one of the most powerful and expected howitzers is the XM1299, which has passed US Army tests and is expected to be delivered in 2023.
This new gun has a longer barrel and a new thruster, which helps the projectile hit a target up to 64km away with the help of GPS. Ideal for attacking helicopters or even drones.
howitzers in brazil
Brazil also has a howitzer artillery that is in the process of being modernized, according to the military. The aim is to increase operational capability in ground combat.
Among the howitzers used are the self-propelled M109 A5 and the L 118 (Light Rifle).
The first weighs 25 tons and is capable of firing four rounds per minute and hitting targets up to 30 km.
The latter is smaller and lighter and can be airlifted or even parachuted. It can fire six shots per minute and is easier to hide, making it ideal for shooting closer to the enemy.
Image: Description / Brazilian Army
Last year, 32 new M109 A5 howitzers on armored vehicles arrived in Brazil after being purchased from the US government. They moved to Santa Maria (RS) and were dispersed among Army organizations in Rio Grande do Sul and Paraná.
source: Noticias
