This month, the Ukrainian defense industry is producing 10 Bohdana self-propelled howitzers for the first time, with more to come in May and beyond. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky made this announcement. The Ukrainian arms industry is building eight Bohdana self-propelled howitzers each month, as reported by Militarnyi. Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov revealed the start of mass production of Ukrainian self-propelled howitzers in January 2023. Some critical parts are produced abroad, while about 30 Bohdana self-propelled howitzers have already been assembled for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Militarnyi reported that the Ukrainian Bohdana self-propelled guns received special protective screens made of metal mesh for protection against drones. These screens cover important areas of the howitzers such as the driver and crew cabin, engine hood, and storage areas for shells and propellant charges. Their main function is to protect against light-impact FPV drones or reduce the effectiveness of Russian loitering munitions. The development of the Bohdana self-propelled guns is aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Ukrainian artillery and strengthening the country’s defense industry.

ملخص الأخبار

• The Ukrainian defense industry’s share of its own production is increasing, supported by long-term contracts and investments.
• The mass production of Ukrainian self-propelled howitzers with Ukrainian financing started in spring 2022.
• About 30 Bohdana self-propelled howitzers have already been assembled for the Armed Forces of Ukraine by December 2023.