Breaking News: United Kingdom Delivers 16 New AS90 Self-Propelled Howitzer to Ukraine.

The British government is intensifying its military aid to Ukraine, surpassing the initial goal set by the current administration regarding the delivery of crucial artillery systems. The British Ministry of Defence confirmed that 16 AS90 self-propelled guns will be transferred to Ukraine, exceeding the original commitment to deliver 12 units within the first 100 days of the new government. This announcement, made on September 26, 2024, by the Ministry of Defence, is part of a broader military support program, which allocates £3 billion annually to Ukraine's defense needs until 2030.
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The AS90 is a self-propelled howitzer designed in the United Kingdom, used by the British armed forces and now in service in Ukraine. (Picture source: UK MoD)

Ten AS90 units have already been delivered, with the remaining six expected to arrive in Ukraine in the coming weeks. These artillery systems play a crucial role in Ukraine's defense strategy, providing effective firepower to support Ukrainian forces on the ground and neutralize key Russian positions. The accelerated delivery of these units highlights the UK's determination to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive capabilities in the ongoing invasion by Russia.

This announcement comes after a renewed commitment from the British government to provide continuous military aid to Ukraine for as long as necessary. This support is part of a broader geopolitical strategy aimed at ensuring Ukraine's ability to resist Russian aggression and stabilize its position in the ongoing conflict.

As part of wider efforts to strengthen the UK’s contribution to Ukraine's defense, the government has also launched a new joint unit between the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This initiative, led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey, aims to streamline and coordinate the UK's approach to supporting Ukraine across different government departments. The new unit is expected to integrate expertise from both the defense and diplomatic sectors, providing a more cohesive strategy in addressing the conflict.

The AS90 is a self-propelled howitzer designed in the United Kingdom, used by the British armed forces and now in service in Ukraine. It is armed with a 155 mm 39-caliber gun, capable of delivering devastating firepower on the battlefield. In addition to its main armament, it is equipped with a machine gun, typically 12.7 mm or 7.62 mm, used for close defense. This armament enables the AS90 to play a critical role in artillery support, providing fire cover for ground troops while being able to destroy enemy positions from a distance.

The vehicle is designed to operate in modern combat environments and is equipped with a comprehensive range of systems to enhance its operational capabilities. These systems include night vision, a protection system against nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) threats, air conditioning, as well as a fire detection and suppression system. These features ensure increased protection and comfort for the crew, even in extreme conditions. Additionally, the AS90 is equipped with full navigation capabilities and an automatic gun-laying system, allowing for quick and precise deployment in combat.

The AS90 crew consists of five members, each playing a crucial role in operating the vehicle and its cannon. In terms of protection, the AS90 offers effective defense against small arms fire and artillery shell fragments, ensuring the crew's safety in intense combat situations.

Weighing 45 tons, the AS90 is a robust vehicle, capable of traveling at a maximum road speed of 55 km/h with a range of 370 km. Its imposing dimensions—9.90 meters in length, 3.40 meters in width, and 3 meters in height—reflect its status as a heavy vehicle designed to dominate the battlefield while maintaining adequate tactical mobility.

The UK’s recent actions demonstrate a continued commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression while also strengthening its own defense capabilities. With more artillery systems en route to Ukraine and new initiatives to enhance the UK's cybersecurity and military recruitment, the British government is positioning itself as a key player in the ongoing effort to secure stability in the region.