Ukraine Bolsters National Guard’s Firepower with NATO-Standard Artillery, Enhanced Support from Allies
In a recent interview with Interfax-Ukraine, National Guard of Ukraine (NGU) Commander Brigadier General Alexander Piivnenko revealed that the guard has received 155-mm self-propelled howitzers (SPH) Zuzana and DITA, further bolstering its artillery capabilities with NATO-standard equipment.
General Piivnenko noted the creation of a separate artillerymen brigade equipped with Ukrainian 155-mm SPH "Bogdana" to align with NATO standards. He confirmed that Zuzana and DITA SPHs, acquired over the past few months, are now in use along the frontlines. "We’re in the process of receiving these systems while simultaneously training personnel for their operation in both independent units and the artillery brigade," he said.
The general acknowledged past difficulties in securing international assistance for the NGU but emphasized improvements in recent months, including the receipt of armored personnel carriers (APCs) like the M113 and FV432. These vehicles support the creation of mobile fire groups, crucial for protecting critical infrastructure.
The DITA SPH is produced by Czech manufacturer Excalibur Army. In early 2024, the Netherlands ordered nine DITA units for Ukraine. With a range of over 20 km, DITA can effectively engage targets at extended distances. Meanwhile, the Slovak Zuzana SPH boasts a 155-mm gun with a 52-caliber barrel, offering a maximum range of 41 km.
These acquisitions demonstrate Ukraine’s continued efforts to upgrade its military capabilities using NATO-compatible equipment, crucially enhancing its ability to counter Russian aggression.
Images courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (DITA), and Yakov Borovsky (Zuzana)
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