Ukraine receives the first wheel shadows RCH 155: Technological breakthrough!

Ukraine receives the first wheel shadows RCH 155: Technological breakthrough!

On January 13, 2025, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius handed over the first wheel shaft RCH 155 to the Ukrainian ambassador Oleksij Makejew in the Kassel work of Krauss-Maffei Wegmann. The handover of this new weapon is a significant step in military cooperation between Germany and Ukraine, since the RCH 155 is the first of its kind to be integrated into the armed forces of a country. Germany has ordered a total of 54 of these modern wheel shadows for Ukraine.

The RCH 155, which runs on eight wheels and reaches a speed of over 100 km/h on the street, brings crucial advantages to the battlefield. Their ability to fire during the movement enables troops to efficiently use the "shoot-and-scoot" tactics. With a firepower that offers up to nine shots per Minute and a range of up to 40 kilometers with standard NATO ammunition, it represents technological progress in artillery.

production and training

The series production of the RCH 155 started after an extensive order for Ukraine in early 2023. However, due to the limited production capacities at the armaments company KNDS, delays can be expected. The first six copies are expected to arrive in Ukraine until the end of 2025. Before delivery, Ukrainian soldiers in Germany receive comprehensive training in order to familiarize themselves with the new weapon system.

The RCH 155 has a technical length of 10.40 m, a width of 2.99 m and a height of 3.60 m. With a weight of 39.0 tons and a main weapon, the 155 mm/l52 cannon, it is used as a remote -controlled shade, which significantly increases the safety of operating personnel. Compared to the Panzerhaubitz 2000, the RCH 155 only needs two people to operate, which increases efficiency in use.

NATO and the armaments industry

The importance of such modern weapons systems becomes clear against the background of increased cooperation between NATO with the armaments industry. In order to meet the challenges in the defense sector, a high level of integration of new technologies is required. This includes, among other things, the use of artificial intelligence and securing the supply chains. The Defense Production Action Plan (DPAP) 2023 should accelerate the production of essential military goods.

In addition, NATO has significantly expanded its support since Russian full invasion. This support includes military help and measures to strengthen the armaments industry of the Member States. The development and delivery of the RCH 155 is part of a comprehensive strategy concept that aims to improve the military skills of the Member States and to support Ukraine in their resistance.