CEO Armin Papperger revealed that Rheinmetall is set to deploy groundbreaking artillery shell prototypes to Ukraine, boasting an unprecedented range of 100 kilometers. The identity of this cutting-edge prototype remains shrouded in mystery, prompting intrigue within military circles. Handelsblatt reports Papperger's assertion that "artillery changes the rules of war," underscoring Rheinmetall's commitment to supply "hundreds of thousands" of these advanced shells to the Ukrainian Defense Forces this year alone.
Among these shipments are prototypes capable of reaching the remarkable distance of 100 kilometers, a feat unparalleled by any existing Rheinmetall artillery or those previously dispatched to Ukraine by allied nations during the ongoing conflict. This revelation elevates anticipation about the undisclosed model's capabilities.
The German-made 155mm Valeano, renowned for its extended range of 70 kilometers, stands as one of the longest-reaching artillery shells deployed to Ukraine thus far. Notably, the unrevealed Rheinmetall prototype surpasses even the prestigious HIMAR-fired Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS), which shares a similar range.
Speculation points towards a potential candidate—a ramjet-powered 155mm artillery round under development by Rheinmetall Denel Munition. Based on the Velocity Enhanced Artillery Projectile (VEAP) concept, this innovation promises a range of approximately 76 kilometers. By substituting the VEAP's rocket booster with a more efficient ramjet engine, Rheinmetall aims to nearly double the projectile's reach, setting a new standard for long-distance artillery.
While the quantity of these pioneering prototypes destined for Ukraine remains undisclosed, it is likely that a limited batch will undergo operational testing in the conflict zone, paving the way for further refinement or mass production. Papperger's ambitious targets include the production of 700,000 artillery rounds this year, marking a significant tenfold increase from 2022, with projections exceeding one million in the near future.
To meet these objectives, Rheinmetall is expanding its artillery manufacturing capabilities, establishing facilities in Germany, Lithuania, and potentially Ukraine. This strategic move underscores the company's dedication to innovation and its pivotal role in shaping the future of modern warfare.
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