According to a report by “bne INTELLINEWS” dated April 27, 2024, Ukraine is set to receive an undisclosed number of 2S1 “Gvozdika” and 2S3 “Akatsya” howitzers, previously deployed by the Iraqi army, as part of its efforts to replenish lost artillery in the ongoing conflict. These howitzers were sold to a British company before being acquired for Ukraine. Reports suggest that the vehicles, which had been spotted in Germany, were originally owned by private entities and include units that were active during the Gulf War.
This transaction underscores a growing trend where Ukraine is sourcing military equipment from international partners and private entities. In May 2023, Nick Mead, a British businessman known for his military gear specialization, facilitated the transfer of 100 reconnaissance armored vehicles to Ukraine. His company, Tanks a Lot, provides experiences with vintage military vehicles and is based in Northamptonshire.
Further support comes from the Serhiy Prytula Foundation, which, in response to attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in November 2022, managed to gather UAH 236 million within a day and a half. These funds were used to purchase 101 vehicles, with former president Petro Poroshenko financing half of the acquisition himself.
The 2S1 and 2S3 are standard Soviet-made howitzers currently in service with the Ukrainian military. These self-propelled howitzers combine firepower with mobility, making them a critical component of artillery units. Introduced during the Soviet era, both models have seen extensive use across various conflicts and continue to be relevant on modern battlefields.