Ukraine Increases Use of Locally-Made Bohdana 4.0 155mm 8x8 Howitzers as Key Artillery Against Russia.

Ukraine has ramped up local production of the Bohdana 4.0, a locally made truck-mounted howitzer that has become a crucial component of the Ukrainian military's artillery arsenal. Recent images released by the Ukrainian Navy on their official Telegram account reveal the extensive deployment of the 2S22 Bohdana 4.0 in combat operations against Russian forces, highlighting Ukraine's growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing despite the challenges of wartime production.
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The Bohdana 4.0 is a locally-made 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzer with a design similar to the French CAESAR howitzer. (Picture source: Telegram Ukrainian Navy)

The Bohdana 4.0, an evolved version of the 2S22 howitzer, represents a major step forward in Ukraine's efforts to modernize its military hardware and reduce its dependency on foreign arms supplies. The 2S22 Bohdana, initially developed and produced domestically, has been a symbol of Ukrainian innovation in the face of adversity. The latest iteration, Bohdana 4.0, showcases significant advancements in technology and operational efficiency, tailored to the specific needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in their ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.

The Bohdana 4.0 is a truck-mounted 155mm self-propelled howitzer, designed to offer a high degree of mobility, precision, and firepower. It is an upgrade from previous versions, incorporating enhanced targeting systems, improved range, and faster deployment capabilities. These features make it particularly effective in the dynamic and often unpredictable conditions of the Ukrainian battlefield. A key aspect of the Bohdana 4.0 is its integration with the Czech-made Tatra Phoenix 8x8 chassis, known for its robustness and off-road capabilities. This chassis provides the Bohdana 4.0 with exceptional mobility, allowing it to navigate Ukraine's diverse and often challenging terrain with ease. The use of the Tatra Phoenix 8x8 chassis also enhances the howitzer's reliability and maintainability, crucial factors in sustained military operations.

In addition to its advanced chassis, the Bohdana 4.0 is equipped with an armored cabin that offers significant protection to the crew. This cabin is similar in design to the Varta, a 4x4 armored personnel carrier manufactured by the Ukrainian company Ukrainian Armor. The Varta-inspired cabin ensures that the Bohdana 4.0’s crew is shielded from small arms fire and shrapnel, enhancing their safety in combat zones.

The Bohdana 4.0 is also technically advanced, featuring a semi-automatic loading system similar to that of the French-made CAESAR howitzer, significantly increasing its rate of fire and operational efficiency. It is equipped with a 155mm NATO-caliber gun, allowing it to fire a wide range of compatible munitions. The howitzer has a minimum firing range of 780 meters, making it effective even at close quarters, while its maximum range extends to 42 kilometers with standard ammunition. When using rocket-assisted projectiles, this range can be extended up to 50 kilometers, providing substantial reach on the battlefield. Furthermore, the Bohdana 4.0 is capable of firing M982 Excalibur shells, known for their precision and extended range, and can sustain a firing rate of 5 rounds per minute, making it a formidable asset in combat.

As the French CAESAR, the Bohdana 4.0 is equipped with a semi-automatic loading system. (Picture source: Telegram Ukraine Navy) 

The Bohdana 4.0 is often compared to the French-made CAESAR (CAmion Équipé d’un Système d’ARtillerie), another truck-mounted howitzer that has been highly regarded for its performance in various military conflicts. While both systems share similar characteristics, such as mobility and ease of deployment, the Bohdana 4.0 has been specifically designed to meet the tactical demands of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. One of the key advantages of the Bohdana 4.0 over the CAESAR is its integration with local command and control systems, allowing for seamless communication and coordination with other Ukrainian military assets. Additionally, the Bohdana 4.0's design is optimized for the challenging terrain and logistical conditions of Ukraine, offering better adaptability in the country's diverse landscape.

Moreover, the localized production of the Bohdana 4.0 ensures a more sustainable supply chain, reducing the vulnerability of the Ukrainian military to disruptions in foreign arms deliveries. This independence is crucial as the conflict with Russia drags on, with international supply chains often under strain due to geopolitical pressures.

The production and deployment of the Bohdana 4.0 underscore Ukraine's strategic shift towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing. By focusing on local production, Ukraine not only secures a steady supply of critical military equipment but also boosts its economy by creating jobs and fostering technological innovation within the country. As the war with Russia continues, the Bohdana 4.0 is set to play a pivotal role in Ukraine's defense strategy, providing the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the firepower and flexibility needed to respond to Russian offensives effectively. The howitzer's success in combat also serves as a powerful message of Ukrainian resilience and ingenuity in the face of overwhelming odds.

The Bohdana 4.0 is more than just a piece of military hardware; it is a symbol of Ukraine's determination to defend its sovereignty using its own resources and expertise. With its advanced design, rooted in both Ukrainian and Czech engineering, the Bohdana 4.0 will likely continue to be a cornerstone of Ukraine's military efforts, providing a critical edge in the ongoing fight against Russian invasion.