Germany to Supply Ukraine with Prototype Artillery Shell with Range of Up to 100 km.

As reported by German Newspaper Handelsblatt, Germany is set to increase Ukraine's artillery capabilities by delivering a prototype artillery shell capable of reaching a firing range of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles). This could potentially revolutionize Ukraine's current artillery systems, which rely on 155 mm rounds with a reach of about 32 kilometers (20 miles) when fired from a howitzer.
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German Company Rheinmetall develops and manufactures a full range of artillery ammunition. (Picture source Rheinmetall)

Details about the prototype shell remain sexret, and Rheinmetall, the German arms manufacturer responsible for its development, has withheld further information, citing Ukraine's security interests. Rheinmetall, recognized as Germany's largest arms producer, is intensifying its focus on artillery production. The company plans to dispatch hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds to Ukraine, including shipments of this new, longer-range prototype within the current year.

Before this, the longest-range munition supplied by Germany to Ukraine was the Vulcano extended-range artillery ammunition, which can hit targets up to 80 kilometers away. Since the conflict began, an unspecified quantity of this munition has been sent to Ukraine. According to the manufacturer, the Vulcano ammunition is highly compatible with existing artillery systems, and its guided version boasts a range of up to 73 kilometers (43 miles).

This strategic advancement in munitions marks a significant boost in Ukraine's defensive and offensive artillery capabilities, potentially reshaping the dynamics on the ground and altering the course of the conflict.

Artillery ammunition has emerged as a cornerstone of Ukraine's military strategy in its ongoing conflict with Russian forces. Artillery systems can strike at considerable distances, far surpassing the range of small arms and many direct-fire weapons. This long-range firepower enables the Ukrainian military to engage targets without exposing themselves to direct counterattacks, essential for defensive and offensive operations.

Another significant advantage is the ability to disrupt enemy movements and logistics from afar. Artillery can be used to target troop formations, command centers, supply lines, and critical infrastructure, thereby slowing or halting enemy advances and reducing their operational effectiveness. This is particularly crucial in a conflict characterized by fluid front lines and the need for rapid, responsive fire.

Several countries also have formed an "Artillery Coalition" to bolster Ukraine's artillery capabilities against Russian forces. This coalition, led by France and the United States, involves 23 countries and aims to enhance Ukraine's artillery capacity in the short term. France has pledged significant resources, including financing the purchase of 72 Caesar howitzers for Ukraine in 2024​​.

The coalition's goals are to meet immediate needs by supplying ammunition and systems and help Ukraine transition from Soviet-era to Western-standard artillery. This involves a long-term commitment to modernizing and training Ukrainian forces to operate and maintain new artillery systems​​.

Furthermore, the coalition aligns with broader European Union plans to supply Ukraine with a million artillery rounds by spring 2024, demonstrating a significant commitment to strengthening Ukraine's military posture amid ongoing conflicts​. This collaborative effort indicates a robust international approach to supporting Ukraine in maintaining its territorial integrity and sovereignty.