Ukraine has developed a 155mm advanced wheeled self-propelled howitzer (SPH), called the 2S22 Bogdana.

The new self-propelled artillery system was intended to destroy command posts, armoured and mechanised units, artillery batteries, communication posts and field fortifications.

The Bogdana self-propelled artillery system is mounted on a KrAZ 6×6 high-mobility truck chassis, manufactured by Ukrainian “AutoKrAZ” industrial company.

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The new artillery system is fitted with a modern fire control system consists of a ballistic computer, a gun system computer. The display of the main fire control computer is located in the armored cab, however, there is also a gun display unit at the rear. It is used by the crew when the howitzer is deployed in firing position.

Is expected that new artillery system will have a minimum range of 780m and is capable of hitting targets at ranges up to 40km (50 with new-developed rounds). The maximum rate of fire is 6 rounds per minute.

According to Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov, a new 155-mm self-propelled howitzer is being tested. “Its crucial characteristics are high mobility, precision, range capability, and high speed of fire”, – he emphasized adding that special ordnance can hit the target at a distance of up to 60 kilometers.

Mr. Turchynov also noticed that the new self-propelled howitzer “has the NATO 155-mm caliber”. “There were no weapons of such caliber in our Armed Forces, neither were they in the Soviet Army nor does it exist in the modern Russian army”, – Secretary of the NSDC of Ukraine.

He added that both the gun control system and the technology for its production at the Ukrainian defense enterprises meet the NATO standards.

“The weapon got a very beautiful feminine name “Bohdana”, and I advise the enemies of Ukraine to memorize it well”, – Secretary of the NSDC Ukraine

The 2S22 Bogdana has a combat weight of 28,000kg. The self-propelled artillery system is equipped with a load assisting system. It carries 20 round of ammunition and associated charges.

The cab of high-mobility truck chassis is of welded steel armour and provides protection from small arms fire. The front of the crew cab is fitted with two large windows and four-door is available on each side.

The new 2S22 Bogdana 6×6 self-propelled howitzer will unveil to the international public for the first time during Ukraine’s Independence Day on Aug. 24.