Last week, Ukrainian Armor subsidiary, Rubin-2017, jointly with Scientific and Production Association Pavlograd Chemical Plant DP, successfully conducted routine tests of 155 mm high-explosive fragmentation projectile for Bohdana wheeled self-propelled howitzer.

The new HE fragmentation projectile complies with the NATO standards. This is an independent development of Rubin-2017 carried out using the company’s current assets with no government funding.

The projectile for Bohdana SPH is made from Ukrainian steel, actuated with top-quality explosive manufactured by Pavlograd Chemical Plant DP. It is not equipped with any imported components. Calculation and penetrating debris distribution proved the projectile’s top quality and compliance with the best analogs manufactured in the NATO countries.

During static tests, the projectile’s high-explosive and fragmentation effects were examined. Finally, drop tests demonstrated projectile sustainability.

Timely development, testing, and full-scale production launch of Ukrainian HE fragmentation projectiles for the new howitzer guarantee our country’s self-sufficiency in defense and security issues.

Rubin-2017 is eager to continue the tests.

Still, the major challenge remains. Ukrainian manufacturers need to overpower the resistance of the Ministry of Defense officials who bound for blocking local defense companies and importing outmoded defense equipment using opaque procurement schemes.

For information: Bohdana SPH is manufactured by Kramatorsk Tool Making Equipment Plant PJSC (KZTS). It is the first heavy armament model of the NATO caliber that is designed and manufactured in Ukraine. Currently, Bohdana SPH is undergoing government filed testing.