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Ukraine Faces Ammunition Shortage for Its 2S7 Pion Self-Propelled Howitzers.
According to Forbes, the Ukrainian military, which entered the war in February 2022 with about 100 of its formidable 2S7 Pion howitzers, is now facing a critical shortage of ammunition for these giant artillery pieces. These 203mm tracked howitzers have been essential for Ukraine's defense efforts, particularly in the early months of the conflict, during the defense of Kyiv and operations on the eastern front.
The 2S7 Pion is a Soviet self-propelled howitzer designed for long-range fire, equipped with a 203mm 2A44 cannon. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)
Although Russian forces have caused significant damage to the 2S7 fleet by destroying or capturing several of these howitzers, Ukraine still has a reserve of these artillery pieces. However, the shortage of specific 203mm shells has led to operational pauses for some of these howitzers. They have appeared sporadically on the battlefield, as seen in September when a 2S7 was photographed in the Kuban Oblast of Russia. The howitzers were then used again by the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group (OSG) in eastern Ukraine, with a focus on the devastating accuracy of each shot.
The challenge of supplying the necessary ammunition lies in the fact that Ukraine does not produce 203mm shells domestically, and very few other countries manufacture them. The United States, which once operated its own fleet of 203mm howitzers, came to Ukraine's aid by transferring 10,000 M105 and M106 shells in 2023. However, after this transfer, U.S. stockpiles of 203mm shells were reportedly depleted, leaving Ukraine with limited options for resupply.
Greece, which continues to operate M110 howitzers, stepped in to provide additional ammunition. The Greek government sent thousands of shells to Ukraine in 2023 and 2024, but this support has been hindered by political hesitation, as Greece’s position on military aid to Ukraine has been more reluctant compared to other NATO countries.
Looking ahead, Turkey, which also operates M110 howitzers with compatible ammunition, may be called upon to supply Ukraine with the necessary 203mm shells. If Ukraine's 2S7 howitzers continue to sporadically appear on the battlefield, Turkey will likely play a significant role in keeping these giants in action.
The 2S7 Pion is a Soviet self-propelled howitzer designed for long-range fire, equipped with a 203mm 2A44 cannon. This powerful howitzer, weighing approximately 46,500 kg, is used by several countries, including Azerbaijan, Angola, Belarus, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. It is designed to provide long-range fire support with the ability to fire heavy projectiles over vast distances. Its maximum road speed reaches 50 km/h, and it can travel up to 650 km before requiring refueling.
The 2S7 Pion is equipped with several combat systems to ensure its effectiveness and security in hostile environments. Notably, it has an overpressure-type NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) system, heating, and a 24-horsepower 9R4-6U2 auxiliary power unit, which allows the vehicle to operate autonomously without relying on its main engine. Additionally, it is equipped with night vision equipment for operations in low-visibility conditions. Its protection is focused on resistance to small arms fire and shell fragments, but it does not have heavy armor to protect against more significant threats.
This vehicle is designed for a crew of seven and features imposing dimensions, measuring 13.12 meters in length, 3.38 meters in width, and 3.0 meters in height. Its primary role is to provide fire support by hitting long-range targets, including fortified positions or concentrations of enemy troops, with great precision. The 2S7 Pion remains a crucial asset for the armies that use it, due to its ability to deliver massive destructive fire on distant targets.
As the war progresses, the ability to maintain and supply ammunition for Ukraine's largest artillery pieces will remain a decisive factor in their defense efforts. With the support of NATO members, Ukraine hopes to ensure that its largest howitzers continue to make an impact in the fight against Russian forces.