Ukrainian soldiers are raising alarms about the high wear and tear of the German-made PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, along with a significant shortage of necessary spare parts.
Less Reliable Than Others
Reports indicate that many of the PzH 2000 units supplied by Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy are currently out of service in the Ukrainian military due to advanced component degradation, according to WP.
Despite being a sophisticated artillery system, the PzH 2000 has been reported to be less reliable than the Polish Krab, with issues particularly arising from its loading mechanisms and overheating barrels.
The intense pace of the ongoing conflict often leads Ukrainian forces to exceed daily firing limits, preventing the barrels from cooling adequately. Although this overheating issue is not unique to the PzH 2000, these units experience failures more frequently than other NATO artillery systems.
Plans for Support Packages
One Ukrainian artillery officer noted:
“This is an excellent system, but its wear is evident. I’ve pointed out the need for barrel replacements after a certain period, but these replacements happen too slowly, partly due to the shortage of spare parts.”
Despite these challenges, Ukrainian forces acknowledge the critical role that the PzH 2000 has played in enhancing their artillery capabilities.
With a 155 mm cannon capable of firing up to 10 rounds per minute and a range of 30 to 80 kilometers depending on the ammunition used, the PzH 2000 has proven effective on the battlefield.
In September, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced plans for additional support packages for Ukraine, including 77 Leopard 1A5 tanks and 12 more PzH 2000 howitzers, with six scheduled for delivery by the end of the year.
