Nine DITA-M Howitzers for Ukraine Under Production in Czech Republic

The Netherlands has announced that Czech arms manufacturers are constructing nine DITA self-propelled howitzers for later dispatch to Ukraine.

The weapons are part of a large Dutch order for Ukraine being fulfilled by two arms manufacturers in the Czech Republic. Netherlands Chief of Defence General Onno Eichelsheim paid them a visit on February 27.

During the visit, General Eichelsheim inspected the VERA-NG radar system, a passive surveillance system designed to track airborne, maritime, and ground targets. Stressing support for Ukraine as the Netherlands' top priority, he acknowledged the urgency of strengthening Europe's security infrastructure. Previous orders included 100 MR-2 counter-UAS and light air defense systems and, in collaboration with the United States and Denmark, 100 modernized T-72 main battle tanks in the Czech Republic. General Eichelsheim inspected these weapons during his tour of Excalibur Army and ERA facilities.

The MR-2, a basic mobile air defense system, is designed for effective drone elimination. Ukrainian military personnel are already familiar with the T-72 tank, eliminating the need for additional training. Once materiel undergoes testing, it will be promptly dispatched to Ukraine.

The DITA 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer is a creation of Czech defense company Excalibur Army. It weighs 29 tons and features a fully automated superstructure adapted from Tatra 8x8 truck-mounted howitzer designs. It achieves a maximum speed of 90 km/h. With a NATO-standard 155mm L45 gun boasting a firing range of 39km, the howitzer maintains a rate of fire of six rounds per minute. The ballistic crew cabin prioritizes protection and utility, offering heating, air-conditioning, and an NBC filtration system. Its on-board control system supports diagnostics, navigation, and automatic gun guiding. The DITA's fire control system facilitates various firing modes, and its power is derived from a Tatra T3C-928-90 engine. The vehicle's terrain negotiation capabilities and water fording ability up to 1.2m contribute to its adaptability in different environments.