Türkiye Considers Supplying T-155 Firtina Self-Propelled Howitzers to Ukraine with US Support.

The Turkish president, Recep Erdogan, will travel to the United States on May 9 to discuss the Pentagon's payment for the supply of T-155 Firtina self-propelled howitzers to Kyiv. Much information in this regard was provided in February 2024, as reported by Middle East Eye, although discussions seem to have progressed in this direction before the Turkish president's visit. This initiative comes at a time when Türkiye while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, is strengthening its commercial ties with Russia while also supplying arms to Ukraine.
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The T-155 Firtina is a 155mm 52 caliber self-propelled howitzer developed by Turkey in collaboration with South Korean defense companies, based on the design of the K9 Thunder (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Despite its involvement in diplomatic solutions, Turkey has been active in supplying arms to Ukraine, including the Bayraktar TB2 tactical attack drones and armored vehicles. In 2022, Turkey sold T-122 Sakarya MLRS artillery systems to Kyiv, although at least one was destroyed by Russian armed forces in September 2023.

As the Turkish president's visit to the United States approaches, information has emerged that Ankara is seeking to supply weapons to Ukraine funded by the Pentagon. Kyiv hopes to receive 12 T-155 Firtina self-propelled artillery systems, equipped with 155mm howitzers, which are particularly suitable for the needs of the Ukrainian armed forces.

The T-155 Firtina is a 155mm 52 caliber self-propelled howitzer developed by Turkey in collaboration with South Korean defense companies, based on the design of the K9 Thunder. Initially launched to fulfill the Turkish army's requirements, production commenced in 2002 following the completion of two prototypes in 2001. Under a license agreement with Samsung Techwin, the initial batch of T-155s was manufactured in South Korea, with subsequent production of over 300 units in Turkey. The program, totaling $1 billion in costs for the Turkish government, aimed to deliver 350 T-155 Firtina units, with over 150 units already supplied to the Turkish Army by December 2009. Additionally, Azerbaijan ordered 36 units, delivered by 2014.

The T-155 Firtina boasts variants such as the Ammunition Resupply Vehicle and the improved Firtina 2 version, featuring enhanced range and firing capabilities. Armed with a 155mm 52 caliber barrel compatible with NATO standard ammunition, it can achieve a maximum firing range of 30 km with rocket-assisted projectiles. The vehicle's design prioritizes crew protection, with all-welded steel armor shielding against small arms fire up to 14.5mm and shell splinters. Powered by an MTU 881 Ka-500 diesel engine delivering 1,000 hp, it can reach speeds of 67 km/h and traverse various terrains with ease. Equipped with advanced combat equipment developed by Aselsan, including a computerized fire-control system, GPS, and NBC protection, the T-155 Firtina ensures operational efficiency and crew safety in diverse battlefield scenarios.

However, the sale of these Turkish self-propelled howitzers requires approval from South Korea, due to the licensed production of facilities based on the South Korean K9 Thunder in Turkey. Fortunately for Kyiv, the South Korean government appears to be aligned with Washington's positions regarding support for Ukraine.

Negotiations between Kyiv and Ankara for the sale of the T-155 Firtina began last year but were suspended due to the blockade of US military assistance. With the recent green light from the US Congress for a tranche of military aid to Ukraine, these obstacles appear to have been removed, paving the way for new transactions.

In addition to the self-propelled howitzers, Turkish manufacturer MKE is also expected to provide 155mm shells to the Ukrainian armed forces when US financial aid is restored. Furthermore, Kyiv has expressed interest in purchasing up to 50 Soviet-era T-72 tanks, and if Turkey is unable to supply them, other allied countries may intervene.

This Turkish attempt to play a role in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict while taking advantage of commercial opportunities raises questions about geopolitical implications and evolving regional dynamics. The final decision on these transactions will depend on various factors, including the relationships between the international actors involved and developments on the ground in Ukraine.

Defense News April 2024