Despite the growing role of drones on the battlefield, classic artillery is still extremely important. And now Ukraine is emerging as a world leader in the production of not only drones, but also self-propelled guns, writes Forbes magazine.
In one of his recent interviews, Igor Fedyrko, executive director of the Ukrainian Defense Industry Council, said that the country has the capacity for domestic production of 40 self-propelled howitzers "Bogdan" per month.
This is an impressive figure if we consider the production capacity of other countries: Russia, with its large military budget, also produces 40 howitzers per month; France produces 8 "Caesar" guns per month; Germany can produce only 5-6 of its Panzerhaubitze 2000 howitzers per year; British-American BAE Systems produces 4 howitzers per month.
Ukrainian drone strikes are now thought to be responsible for two-thirds of Russian combat casualties. But this may be the result of a shortage of artillery and ammunition in the Defense Forces, Forbes notes.
The ability to use large quantities of artillery is crucial on the modern battlefield. Both Russia and Ukraine have perfected the integration of artillery and drones to achieve maximum effectiveness.
Artillery has several advantages over drone strikes. Artillery shells are cheaper than most drones, but they are more powerful and not vulnerable to radio interference. While drones can deliver precise strikes on important targets and equipment, it is artillery fire that is crucial in the fight against enemy infantry.
Combined with advances in other areas of defense, Ukraine's growing arsenal of howitzers enhances its ability to withstand and adapt to a very uncertain battlefield, Forbes writes.