Ukraine's Military innovation unveiled. New towed Howitzer and advanced missile systems

Brigade General Serhiy Baranov, the distinguished leader at the head of the Main Directorate of Missiles, Artillery, and Unmanned Systems within the Border Guard of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, recently engaged in a conversation with a journalist from the Kyiv Not Kiev website.

In this enlightening exchange, General Baranov unveiled a panorama of cutting-edge developments that underscore the dynamism and ingenuity of the Ukrainian arms industry. Among the myriad breakthroughs in the pipeline, a particular focus emerged on the advent of a novel towed howitzer.

This prospective towed howitzer, drawing inspiration from the technological prowess witnessed in the construction of the self-propelled 2S22 Bohdan, is poised to usher in a new era by replacing aging post-Soviet artillery systems, including stalwarts such as the D-20 and 2A65 Msta-B. Moreover, it is set to challenge Western counterparts supplied by Ukraine's allies, such as the M777 or FH70.

Brigade General Serhiy Baranov discusses game-changing developments in Ukrainian Arms Industry

The transition from 122-caliber artillery to the more compact 105 mm artillery is under consideration, raising intriguing questions about the specifications of the howitzer, including the potential adoption of a barrel length of 39 calibers or longer for an enhanced range of fired projectiles. While the logistical benefits of such an advancement are apparent, the full integration of this state-of-the-art artillery piece remains a journey that lies ahead.

General Baranov further illuminated the landscape by shedding light on the ongoing endeavors in the realm of Ukrainian missile effectors. Leveraging insights from the R-360 Neptun anti-ship cruise missile and the experimental Grom-2, the Ukrainian military is actively pursuing the development of these missile systems. Notably, one of the recent missile tests yielded a remarkable result—a successful hit at an astounding distance of 700 km. This stands as a testament to the prowess of Ukrainian missile technology, signifying not just an advancement in military capabilities, but also a leap forward in terms of strategic reach.

Amidst these revelations, General Baranov emphasized that numerous novel weapon systems have entered the prototype phase, and their integration into active service is set to be expedited. This strategic initiative is not merely about bolstering the defensive capabilities of the Ukrainian army; it is a broader commitment to reinvigorating an arms industry that has weathered significant challenges.

This is a completely new missile, we will increase its capabilities in terms of range and accuracy. I think you will see the results.
BRIGADE GENERAL SERHIY BARANOV, HEAD OF THE MAIN DIRECTOR FOR MISSILES, ARTILLERY AND UNMANNED SYSTEMS OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE.

In discussing the newly developed missile, General Baranov exuded confidence, stating, “This is a completely new missile, and we will increase its capabilities in terms of range and accuracy. I think you will see the results”. This assurance not only reflects the determination to refine military technology but also alludes to the anticipation surrounding tangible outcomes that will shape the future of Ukrainian defense.

As Ukraine charts its course into the future of military innovation, the world awaits with bated breath to witness the fruition of these ambitious endeavors.

The trajectory of the Ukrainian arms industry, under the leadership of visionaries like General Serhiy Baranov, not only promises enhanced security for the nation but also positions Ukraine as a formidable player on the global stage of military technology and innovation.