Ukraine boosts howitzer production, outpaces NATO giants
Ukraine has significantly ramped up the production of Bohdana self-propelled howitzers, now reaching a level of 36 units per month. This production capacity far surpasses that of European NATO members, including major countries like France.
Previously, the Ukrainian Defense Procurement Agency reported a monthly production of "over 20" such guns. However, according to sources from Army Technology and a report published on April 25, production has now increased to as many as 36 Bohdana self-propelled howitzers per month.
Development and production of Bohdana howitzers
Bohdana gained media attention and became an artillery showcase for Ukraine due to its role in the operation to liberate Snake Island. Initially an experimental weapon, it was officially put into service in 2023. At that point, Ukrainians began serial production, rapidly increasing the pace while systematically introducing further improvements.
As a result, at least five versions have been developed, with variations in chassis and cabin configuration. The production process has been distributed across multiple locations, including some facilities abroad, to ensure continuity even in the event of attacks on production sites within Ukraine.
This Ukrainian design features a 155 mm caliber gun, which meets NATO standards, offering a maximum firing range of approximately 37 miles, thanks to a barrel length of 52 calibers, and a firing rate of 6 rounds per minute. The latest versions of this howitzer incorporate modifications such as the Tatra Phoenix 8x8 chassis, armored cabins, and a semi-automatic loading system.
Ukraine's artillery showcase
The cost of one Bohdana self-propelled howitzer is estimated to be around $2.5 million, depending on the chassis used. The production scale of 36 units per month far surpasses the capabilities of European NATO members. For instance, France, a leader in the field, achieved a production level of 12 CAESAR self-propelled howitzers per month in 2024.
Simultaneously, Ukrainians are developing a towed version known as Bohdana-B, which was first shown in photos from live-fire exercises in March of this year. This design is significantly more cost-effective, at about $1.5 million per unit.
As noted by the Ukrainian service UNITED24 Media, the production of domestic artillery systems has become crucial as Ukraine faces ongoing equipment losses on the battlefield and limited weapon supplies from allies. Among the artillery delivered from the West are British AS90s, German PzH 2000s, French CAESARs, and Polish Krabs.
