Britain changes its mind on key weapon in supporting Ukraine's military

The British government intends to supply Ukraine with more AS90 self-propelled howitzers than previously reported. The change of heart regarding the number of these weapons sent to the front line was announced on the British government website GOV.UK on September 26.

In addition to the increase in numbers, the pace of arms transfers from the UK to Ukraine has also been accelerated.

Specifically, instead of just providing 12 AS90 self-propelled guns, the new government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer has committed to providing four more such units. A total of 10 systems have been delivered, and six more will continue to be delivered in the coming weeks.

“Artillery has proven to be vital in protecting Ukrainian forces and destroying key Russian targets,” the British government statement said.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (left) and Ukrainian leader Zelensky on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Washington DC, July 10, 2024. Photo: The Guardian

The UK government also announced a new joint agency with Ukraine, led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey, which will integrate expertise and help drive a new whole-of-government approach to Ukraine.

The AS90 is a 155mm self-propelled gun that is fielded by three Royal Artillery Field Regiments. It is a combat-proven weapon, and in tests, two AS90 guns were able to fire a total payload of 261kg at a single target in less than 10 seconds.

Ukrainian gunners during an exercise with AS90 self-propelled guns in the UK, March 2023. Photo: Militarnyi

The automatic loading system allows the gun to fire at a rate of 3 rounds in less than 10 seconds. In addition, the AS90 can fire at a high rate of 6 rounds per minute for 3 minutes, or at a sustained rate of 2 rounds per minute.

The gun is equipped with a recoil suspension and hydrogas hydraulics, allowing the turret to move and fire 360 ​​degrees.

The UK has consistently expressed strong support for Ukraine and has pledged a total of £12.8 billion (about $16.2 billion) in support to the Eastern European country, including £7.8 billion (about $9.9 billion) for military assistance and £5 billion (about $6.3 billion) for non-military assistance.

The new British government will continue to implement plans to spend at least £3 billion (about $4 billion) a year on military support for Ukraine "for as long as necessary" in the conflict with Russia, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in July.

Minh Duc (According to GOV.UK, Forces News, Kyiv Independent)

Source: https://www.nguoiduatin.vn/anh-doi-y-ve-loai-vu-khi-quan-trong-trong-viec-ho-tro-quan-doi-ukraine-204240927105641006.htm