Germany is funding the production of 200 Bogdana self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine.
The defense deal, worth over 1.2 billion euros, allows Ukraine to produce 200 Bogdana 155 mm self-propelled howitzers on Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis, while also increasing its UAV and spare parts stockpiles for the Patriot and IRIS-T systems.
Germany will finance a defense package worth more than 1.2 billion euros for Ukraine, with the centerpiece being a project to produce 200 Bogdana 155 mm self-propelled howitzers according to NATO standards, aimed at strengthening the artillery and air defense capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Overview of the Germany-Ukraine defense agreement package
Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that the two sides have signed a series of defense agreements with Germany, totaling more than 1.2 billion euros. The main goal is to strengthen Ukraine's artillery and air defense capabilities in the context of the ongoing conflict.
Besides artillery, the agreement also includes additional investment in drones, a long-term supply of spare parts for the Patriot system, and commitments of large-scale financial support for Ukraine in 2026.
The Bogdana 155 mm self-propelled artillery project is based on the Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis.
The most important component of the funding package is the large-scale artillery project: the production of 200 Bogdana self-propelled howitzers on German-supplied Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis, worth a total of 750 million euros.
These systems utilize NATO-standard 155 mm cannons and will be integrated onto an improved chassis platform, aiming to increase mobility and reliability in combat. According to Ukraine, perfecting the mobile platform is a key factor in enhancing the effectiveness of modern artillery on the battlefield.
Bogdana is described as a domestically produced artillery system that has proven effective on the front lines. When using extended-range projectiles with a booster stage, the system achieves a range of up to 42 km, giving Ukrainian artillery a long-range fire advantage.
Key technical information has been released.
| Category | Information by source |
|---|---|
| Type of weapon | Bogdana self-propelled artillery |
| caliber | 155 mm, NATO standard |
| Mobile platform | The Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis is from Germany. |
| Expected production quantity | 200 systems |
| Artillery project value | 750 million euros |
| The maximum firing range is stated. | Up to 42 km with extended-range projectiles with booster stages. |
Technical and operational significance for Ukrainian artillery.
The production of 200 Bogdana 155 mm self-propelled howitzers on improved chassis has helped Ukraine rapidly increase the number of NATO-standard self-propelled artillery systems, while also standardizing calibers and ammunition with supporting countries.
The Mercedes-Benz Zetros platform, combined with the 155 mm cannon, allows for the formation of a highly mobile wheeled artillery force, suitable for the requirements of maneuvering, firing, and maneuvering in a battlefield environment with a high density of enemy reconnaissance and firepower.
With a range of up to 42 km (when using extended-range projectiles with booster stages), it creates the capability to attack from beyond the response range of many conventional artillery systems, supporting deep fire support operations and striking enemy command and logistics targets.
Increase the number of Patriot UAVs and stockpile spare parts.
In addition to the Bogdana project, Germany is also providing an extra 200 million euros for Ukraine's drones. This funding aims to strengthen its UAV force – an increasingly important component in reconnaissance, artillery guidance, and precision strikes.
The support package also includes a long-term supply of spare parts for the Patriot system. This helps maintain the combat readiness of the long-range air defense systems, which are heavily reliant on maintenance and spare parts.
According to the Ukrainian Defense Minister, Germany has delivered two Patriot systems and the ninth IRIS-T system. He emphasized the role of these systems in protecting Ukrainian cities from air attacks.
Production financing models in Ukraine and directions for 2026
There is currently no information on the specific delivery date for the Bogdana self-propelled howitzers. However, this project is being implemented under a direct funding model for production in Ukraine, similar to the model previously used by Denmark.
Minister Denys Shmyhal stated that, based on agreements between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Berlin will allocate 11.5 billion euros to support Ukraine in 2026. This figure indicates that the Bogdana package, UAVs, and air defense are part of a long-term support plan, not just isolated aid.
Through a deal exceeding 1.2 billion euros, focusing on Bogdana 155 mm self-propelled howitzers, UAVs, and long-range air defense systems such as Patriot and IRIS-T, Ukraine is simultaneously strengthening both its long-range ground firepower and air defense capabilities, with clear financial and industrial support from Germany.
