Ukrainian gunners begin training with AS-90

The Ukrainian military have arrived this weekend in Great Britain to begin training on British AS-90 self-propelled howitzers.

The Ministry of Defense of Great Britain reported about this on its social media.

It has been specified that Ukrainian servicemen will be trained in the operation of 30 self-propelled howitzers promised to Ukraine.

Currently, the exact number of military personnel who will undergo training and how long it will last is unknown.

Previously, Militarnyi reported that the UK would hand over AS-90 155-mm self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.

On January 16, British Defense Minister Ben Wallace announced the transfer of 30 self-propelled guns to the Armed Forces of Ukraine as part of a new military aid package.

AS-90

AS-90 is a British 155mm self-propelled artillery system developed by BAE Systems.

In total, the British Army has received 179 units. The ACS have armed 6 artillery regiments. AS-90 has replaced the 105 mm FV433 Abbot and M109 self-propelled guns, along with trailed 155 mm self-propelled FH70.

Main characteristics

Crew – 5 people
Weight – 45 tons
Engine – turbo diesel engine with a capacity of 660 hp
Barrel length – 39 calibers
Range of firing with a conventional projectile – 24.9 km
Rate of fire – 3 shots per 10 seconds (in bursts), 6 shots per 3 minutes (intense)
Ammunition – 48 shells (31 turret and 17 hull)
Additional armament – 7.62 mm machine gun

The turret of the AS-90 is used in the production of Polish Krab self-propelled guns, which are also in service with the Ukrainian military.

Previously, Militarnyi reported that Ukrainian crews were already mastering Challenger 2 in Great Britain.

According to the British Defense Ministry, the tank crews arrived in the country at the end of January, and already this week they have been quick to master the controls of the Challenger 2 tank.