Of the seven armored howitzers that Germany delivered to Ukraine in June, several are already showing signs of wear. The Ukrainian authorities reported this to the German Defense Ministry mid-week, Der Spiegel magazine reported.
The heavy artillery, of which the Netherlands also supplied a number of copies, could possibly be used too intensively at the front. Some gave error messages, which might mean they need to be repaired. Within the German army, firing about 100 shells a day is considered intensive. But the Ukrainians are probably firing more.
Maintenance Center in Poland
The German army has decided to send spare parts to Ukraine more quickly to solve the problems. In addition, the German government is in talks with the arms industry to set up a maintenance center in Poland, so that emergency repairs can be carried out more quickly in the future.
According to German media, there would also be problems with new ammunition for the armored anti-aircraft gun Gepard, some of which Germany has also supplied. During tests in Germany, Norwegian-made ammunition was found not to be recognized by the Gepard’s firing system.
More Armored Howitzers
Germany delivered seven armored howitzers in June and the Netherlands simultaneously sent five to Ukraine. This month, the two countries each delivered three more of these heavy weapons. It is not known whether the problems also affect the Dutch armored howitzers.
Earlier this week, Der Spiegel reported that the German government has approved the sale of 100 armored howitzers. The sale would cost 1.7 billion euros.
Also watch: Ukraine destroys important bridge in occupied city of Kherson
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