On July 7, 2024, the United Kingdom underscored its support for Ukraine by unveiling a substantial military aid package, as announced by the newly appointed Defense Secretary, John Healey. This package includes a variety of military equipment, such as precision Brimstone missiles and ten AS-90 artillery systems, accompanied by crucial logistical support tools. The inclusion of AS-90s, noted for their rapid firing capability and extensive range, is aimed at significantly increasing the defensive capabilities of Ukraine.
The AS-90 (“Artillery System for the 1990s”) is a British self-propelled artillery gun that has been in service since the early 1990s. Developed to replace older models of field guns in the British Army, the AS-90 was designed by Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering. It was first produced and entered service in 1993, fulfilling a requirement for a modern and capable tracked artillery system.
The AS-90 is armed with a 155mm, 39-caliber gun, capable of firing standard NATO ammunition up to 24.7 kilometers using regular charges and up to 30 kilometers using base bleed rounds. It can also achieve a range of approximately 60 to 80 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles. The system features an automatic loading mechanism allowing a burst fire rate of three rounds in less than 10 seconds, and a sustained fire rate of six rounds per minute, making it highly effective during intensive combat operations.