Exclusive: German PzH 2000 Howitzers Empower Ukraine to Strike Deep into Russian Territory.

According to a recent video report published by the German newspaper Bild, the PzH 2000 (Panzerhaubitze 2000), a 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer donated by Germany to Ukraine, has become the most powerful artillery system in the Ukrainian army's inventory. This advanced artillery system has significantly boosted Ukraine's capability to target Russian forces, even on Russian territory.
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German government gives the green light to Ukraine to strike Russian territory with a German-donated PzH 2000 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer.  (Picture source: Video footage Bild)

The German government has recently granted permission for Ukrainian soldiers to engage military targets on Russian soil. This strategic decision aims to neutralize Russian artillery units capable of striking Ukrainian cities and military positions from across the border. According to Bild's report, the PzH 2000 (Panzerhaubitze 2000) has already been deployed occasionally against targets within Russia, resulting in the destruction of several key Russian positions that once posed a threat to Ukrainian soldiers from the Russian side of the border.

Ukrainian artillery units equipped with the PzH 2000 are employing "shoot-and-scoot" tactics, a strategy designed to fire at enemy targets and swiftly relocate to avoid counterattacks. This approach is particularly effective when combined with real-time information provided by reconnaissance drones. Ukrainian forces are also taking measures to evade detection by Russian drones, ensuring the continued effectiveness and survivability of their artillery units.

The PzH 2000 is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer representing a significant advancement in artillery technology. It boasts several key features, including a high rate of fire, with the ability to fire three rounds in nine seconds or sustain a continuous fire rate of 10 rounds per minute for two minutes. Its impressive range allows it to hit targets up to 30-40 kilometers away with conventional rounds and up to 56 kilometers with extended-range projectiles. The PzH 2000's mobility is enhanced by its tracked chassis, which enables it to maneuver across various terrains and reposition quickly, making it ideal for shoot-and-scoot tactics.

"Shoot-and-scoot" is a military tactic used by artillery units to enhance their survivability and effectiveness on the battlefield. The concept involves firing at enemy targets and then quickly relocating to a new position before the enemy can accurately return fire. This tactic minimizes the time the artillery unit is exposed to counter-battery fire, which is artillery fire directed at the source of incoming rounds. By rapidly changing locations after each firing sequence, the artillery units become more difficult for the enemy to target and destroy, thereby increasing their operational longevity and effectiveness in sustained combat situations.

The tactical advantages of shoot-and-scoot are significant. Firstly, it reduces the likelihood of artillery units being hit by enemy counterattacks, as the enemy cannot precisely target a position that has already been vacated. This protects valuable equipment and safeguards the lives of personnel operating the artillery. Secondly, this tactic leverages the element of surprise and mobility, allowing forces to adapt quickly to changing battlefield conditions and maintain pressure on the enemy from unpredictable locations. By employing shoot-and-scoot, Ukrainian military forces can enhance their offensive capabilities while mitigating the risks associated with static artillery positions. This tactic is particularly effective when combined with real-time intelligence from reconnaissance assets like drones, further increasing the accuracy and effectiveness of artillery strikes.

In a joint project with the Netherlands, Germany has contributed 14 self-propelled howitzers PzH 2000 and spare parts to bolster the artillery capabilities of allied forces. This collaboration underscores the importance of international partnerships in strengthening military assets and operational effectiveness. Integrating the PzH 2000 into military inventories significantly enhances their long-range artillery capabilities, offering superior firepower and advanced tactical flexibility.

The introduction of the PzH 2000 into Ukraine's arsenal represents a significant enhancement of its artillery capabilities, offering both superior firepower and advanced tactical flexibility. As the conflict continues, the use of this German-supplied artillery system underscores the evolving dynamics on the battlefield and the critical role of international military support in shaping the course of the war.