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Ukraine reveals new towed Bohdana-B 155mm howitzer to meet high demand for artillery systems.
On October 4, 2024, Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defense, Dmytro Klimenkov, presented for the first time a towed version of the 2S22 Bohdana self-propelled howitzer, mounted on the carriage of a Soviet 152mm 2A36 Giatsint-B howitzer. This version lacks certain features of the self-propelled model, such as a protective shield, but includes modifications to the artillery guidance system. The presentation occurred during a Ministry of Defense event, where new Ukrainian-made weapons, tested in combat, were showcased to foreign partners.
The Bohdana-B lacks certain features of the self-propelled model, such as a protective shield, but includes modifications to the artillery guidance system. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)
The presentation also featured the Stugna-P anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system, several armored vehicles, several unmanned systems including ground-based kamikaze drones and demining machines. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were highlighted, ranging from small FPV drones to large attack UAVs capable of deep operations in enemy territory. Klimenkov emphasized the importance of foreign investment in Ukraine’s defense sector, noting that these developments had been tested in battle and further refined for operational use.
During discussions between the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense and foreign representatives, cooperation in defense was a central theme. Foreign partners expressed interest in Ukrainian defense capabilities, and plans were discussed for joint projects to strengthen Ukraine’s defense industry. Klimenkov highlighted Ukraine’s desire to collaborate with international arms manufacturers and investors to enhance its defense capabilities, focusing on the systems demonstrated.
On August 2, 2024, Army Recognition reported that Ukraine was developing a 155mm towed artillery system, sometimes referred to as the Bohdana-B, using the artillery unit from the 2S22 Bohdana mounted on Soviet-era howitzer carriages. The aim behind this development is to provide a simpler, less expensive alternative to self-propelled systems. The towed Bohdana is designed to supplement Ukraine’s artillery capabilities, offering a more easily producible option amid a significant demand for artillery systems.
The Bohdana 4.0, now mounted on a Czech Tatra 158 Phoenix 8x8 chassis, retains the 155mm NATO-caliber gun and includes survivability enhancements. (Picture source: Ukrainian 32nd Separate Artillery Brigade)
The Ukrainian defense industry has ramped up the production of artillery systems in response to battlefield needs. Ukraine currently produces between 15 and 20 Bohdana self-propelled artillery units per month on various chassis. However, the demand for artillery remains high, partly due to losses and wear during the ongoing conflict. The decision to develop a towed version of the Bohdana reflects the need for simpler, more cost-effective solutions that can be produced quickly to meet Ukraine’s defense requirements.
The towed version offers certain advantages, such as reduced production costs and increased reliability, despite lacking the mobility and protection of self-propelled systems. The 2A36 Giatsint-B carriage was identified as the most suitable platform for the 155mm Bohdana artillery unit due to its compatibility with the gun’s size and energy. Other Soviet-era systems, like the Msta-B and D-20, have also been considered for similar configurations, with potential for reusing old Soviet howitzer carriages to further reduce production costs.
In addition to developing towed artillery, Ukraine continues producing self-propelled Bohdana howitzers. Production has increased to 15 to 20 units per month as of 2024, compared to six units reported in December 2023. First introduced in 2018, the Bohdana self-propelled howitzer is based on a KrAZ 6×6 truck chassis and has gone through several iterations, including the Bohdana 2.0 and 4.0 versions. These later versions feature modifications such as an armored cabin and a semi-automatic loading system. The Bohdana 4.0, now mounted on a Czech Tatra 158 Phoenix 8x8 chassis, retains the 155mm NATO-caliber gun and includes survivability enhancements.
First introduced in 2018, the Bohdana self-propelled howitzer is based on a KrAZ 6×6 truck chassis and has gone through several iterations, including the Bohdana 2.0 and 4.0 versions. (Picture source: Militarnyi)
Ukraine’s production of both towed and self-propelled artillery systems is part of a broader effort to meet its defense needs as Russia increases its weapons production. Ukraine has also partnered with Slovak defense company Konštrukta Defense to develop a new self-propelled gun based on the Slovak Zuzana system, aiming to further strengthen its artillery capabilities.
The Bohdana systems have seen combat, notably during the 2022 battle for Snake Island, where they were used alongside French Caesar howitzers. This performance led to additional orders from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense and increased production. Despite setbacks, such as the destruction of production facilities due to missile strikes, Ukraine’s defense industry has continued developing these systems by relocating factories and restoring equipment.
The latest variant, the Bohdana 4.0, is a 155mm howitzer with a 52-caliber barrel. It is equipped with a semi-automatic loading system and has a maximum rate of fire of 5 rounds per minute. The system has a firing range of up to 48 km with high-explosive fragmentation projectiles and up to 60 km when using rocket-assisted projectiles. It can traverse 30 degrees to the left and right, with a basic load of 20 rounds. The minimum firing range is 780 meters, and the howitzer is compatible with all standard NATO 155mm ammunition.