Ukraine National Guard showcases Slovak Zuzana 2 howitzer in action against Russian Forces.

On November 20, 2024, the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU) formally integrated Zuzana 2 155mm self-propelled howitzers into its artillery units. Developed by the Slovak company Konstrukta Defence, these systems are designed to counter enemy artillery, including the 2S5 Giatsint-S and 2S19 Msta-S, and deliver strikes tens of kilometers behind the front lines. NGU Commander Oleksandr Pivnenko confirmed the addition, stating that these howitzers will enhance the effectiveness of counter-battery and direct fire operations.
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For counter-battery engagements, the Zuzana 2 howitzers are used to target enemy self-propelled artillery and logistics hubs at long ranges, supported by aerial reconnaissance using UAVs. (Picture source: National Guard of Ukraine)

Ukraine initially acquired eight Zuzana 2 howitzers under a June 2022 contract with Slovakia. These units were delivered by January 2023. A second contract, funded by Germany, Denmark, and Norway, provided an additional 16 units valued at €93 million, with deliveries completed in mid-2023, bringing the total to 24 units now in service. It remains unclear whether all units were transferred to the NGU or distributed among other Ukrainian military branches, but they are regarded as a key component of Ukraine's artillery capabilities.

Reports indicate that Zuzana 2 units have been deployed on the battlefield with mixed results. Despite their range and automated systems enhancing counter-battery operations, at least one unit was destroyed by Russian Lancet loitering munitions in 2024, highlighting the vulnerability of large artillery systems to modern precision-guided weapons, especially against the Lancet kamikaze drone, which has been increasingly used in Ukraine by Russia to target high-value military assets.

However, the addition of Zuzana 2 howitzers to the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU) represents a significant increase in artillery capability. These systems provide the capacity to engage targets at extended ranges with precision, support counter-battery missions, and contribute to the broader artillery duel in the ongoing conflict. Therefore, these systems are anticipated to play a crucial role in the conflict, where artillery remains pivotal to long-range combat operations.

Moreover, the Zuzana 2’s rapid deployment capability allows it to transition from travel to firing positions in under two minutes. These systems are designed to support both direct fire operations and counter-battery engagements. In the latter role, the howitzers are used to target enemy self-propelled artillery and logistics hubs at long ranges, supported by aerial reconnaissance using UAVs.

The Zuzana 2 was developed as part of Slovakia’s efforts to modernize its artillery capabilities. It is based on the earlier DANA vz. 77 design and includes upgrades such as a 52-caliber barrel, automated fire control systems, and compatibility with NATO-standard ammunition. The system has been marketed internationally, with potential contracts being discussed with Brazil for the supply of 36 units.

It is equipped with a 155mm L52 caliber gun capable of firing NATO-standard ammunition, including Extended Range Full Bore – Base Bleed (ERFB-BB) rounds, achieving ranges of over 40 kilometers. It features a fully automated loading system with a firing rate of five rounds per minute and supports Multiple Rounds Simultaneous Impact (MRSI) capabilities. The system carries a 40-round magazine, allowing sustained fire in both manual and automated modes.

Built on a Tatra 8x8 chassis, it can traverse trenches up to two meters wide, cross vertical obstacles up to 0.5 meters high, and ford water up to 1.4 meters deep. Its top speed is 80 km/h, with an operational range of 600 kilometers. The gun is mounted externally, separating the crew from the firing mechanism and reducing exposure to firing gases. Light armor protects the crew against small arms fire and shrapnel. Additional features include air conditioning, a fire suppression system, night vision, and nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection.