Italy to supply Ukraine with 40 additional M109L 155mm self-propelled howitzers.
According to information released on the Twitter account of "A-129 Mangusta" on April 25, 2023, Italy plans to deliver 40 additional M109L 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine.
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Currently, Italy has already delivered to Ukraine 20 M109L 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzers. (Picture source Twitter account A-129 Mangusta)
Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Italy has been steadfast in its support, offering military, technical, financial, and humanitarian aid to the embattled nation.
Italy has supplied Ukraine with five separate consignments of military and technical support, including 544 anti-tank guided missiles, 25 Stinger MANPADS, 20 M109 155mm howitzers, 6 PzH 2000 155mm tracked seld-propelled howitzers, HH-70 155mm towed howitzers, 2 M270A1 MLRS, Skyguard air defense missile systems, 177 mortars, various artillery shells, 3,028 small arms, 4,722 sets of body armor, 1,440 helmets, 300 radios, 20,400 dry rations, ammunition, armored personnel carriers, armored vehicles, winter uniforms, BV-206 tracked all-terrain vehicles, anti-radar missiles, and mine detectors.
In addition to material support, the Italian government has granted Ukraine direct financial aid totaling EUR 110 million, alongside a EUR 200 million zero-interest loan with a 15-year term and a 7.5-year grace period for deferred repayment. This agreement was signed on August 5, 2022.
Through international organizations, Italy has further committed EUR 25 million in aid. As an active participant in the Group of Seven States and international financial institution meetings, Italy played a key role in securing an agreement to allocate USD 18.4 billion to Ukraine to support its budget.
The M109L 155mm howitzer is an upgraded variant of the American M109 155mm tracked self-propelled artillery system, specifically tailored to the Italian Army's requirements. This modernized version of the widely used M109 howitzer features enhancements in firepower, mobility, and protection.
The M109L is equipped with a 155mm L/39 caliber gun, which has an extended firing range compared to its predecessors. Additionally, the M109L incorporates advanced fire control systems and communication equipment, enabling better coordination with other units on the battlefield.
The range of the M109L 155mm howitzer depends on the type of ammunition used. With standard High-Explosive (HE) projectiles, it can reach ranges up to 18-22 km (11-13.7 miles). When using advanced ammunition types, such as rocket-assisted projectiles, the range can be extended to around 30 km (18.6 miles) or more.
