Qatar trades advanced howitzers for German models to aid Ukraine
As reported by the Militarny portal, citing the German Bild, in the first half of 2024, the German government approved the sale to Qatar of the latest RCH 155 155 mm self-propelled howitzers. In return, Doha will transfer 12 out of 24 PzH 2000 howitzers to Ukraine.
Artillery equipment plays a key role in the conflict in Ukraine. It allows for attacking enemy positions several miles away from allied positions. This is crucial because popular kamikaze drones and tanks do not have such high firepower.
Valuable howitzers will go to Ukraine
Ukrainians have a substantial reason to rejoice: Their armed forces will soon be supported by some of the best self-propelled howitzers in the world, comparable to the Polish AHS Krab. This is all due to the Qatari government's purchases in Germany. We are discussing acquiring modern RCH 155 howitzers, which will partially replace the mentioned PzH 2000.
As Militarny explains, Doha will transfer 12 PzH 2000 units to Ukraine in exchange for approval to purchase the RCH 155. Qatar's arsenal will still have 12 of these machines. However, before the howitzers head to the front, they will be sent to Germany for necessary repairs and preparations.
PzH 2000 and RCH 155: Valuable equipment on the modern battlefield
The Panzerhaubitze 2000 is an advanced and powerful howitzer mounted on a tracked chassis, weighing an impressive 63 tons. The 155 mm gun, with a barrel length of 52 calibers, features an automatic loading system that allows it to fire up to 10 rounds per minute. This efficiency enables a 5-shot MRSI (Multiple Round Simultaneous Impact) mode where shells can hit a target almost simultaneously over a distance exceeding 12 miles.
The firing range of the Panzerhaubitze 2000 varies depending on the type of ammunition used. The most common DM121 rounds provide a range of up to 19 miles. Using shells with a gas generator, the range increases to 25 miles, while rocket-assisted projectiles like the M549A1 enable hitting targets at a distance of up to 37 miles. Additionally, the PzH 2000 can use special shells, such as the SMArt 155, which can automatically target and destroy armored targets, or sub-caliber guided Vulcano GLR projectiles, which can reach up to 50 miles.
Qatar will buy RCH 155 howitzers that can fire while on the move
The designers of the RCH 155 howitzer introduced a 155 mm barrel with a length of 52 calibers. The turret has space for an ammunition magazine that can hold 30 shells and propellant charges and an automatic loader. The crew can expect a firing range of around 25 miles using standard ammunition. When using V-LAP shells, this range will be even greater. The howitzer's rate of fire is estimated at nine rounds per minute. The biggest advantage, however, is its ability to fire while moving.
Despite its length exceeding 33 ft and weighing around 43 tons, the RCH 155 is expected to have excellent mobility. The 8x8 drive and powerful engine ensure a top speed of up to 62 mph. The RCH 155 howitzer can cover up to 435 miles on a single fuel tank.
