Ukrainian brigade's M777 howitzer scores against Russian targets

A short video dedicated to the soldiers from the 44th Artillery Brigade of the Operational Command "West" appeared on social media. As confirmed by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, they successfully eliminated "two BM-27 Uragan artillery systems, two self-propelled guns, and one other important target" in one day.

The M777 (English: M777 Ultralightweight Field Howitzer) is a British 155 mm howitzer initially designed for the American army and has been produced since 2002. Ultimately, this type of weapon also entered service in several other countries that have been supplying it to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion.

The piece used by the soldiers of the 44th Artillery Brigade of the Operational Command "West" comes from the United States, as evidenced by the inscription "From America with Love" on it. About 100 units of the M777 were sent from the USA to the front in Ukraine, and allies provided another 100.

This equipment weighs approximately 3,774 kilograms and measures about 9.4 metres in length in transport position and over 10 metres in combat position. A crew of seven soldiers is required to operate it. Transfers to Ukraine were mainly justified by its still relatively large firepower, which has been confirmed in skirmishes with the Russians.

Designers opted for a 39-calibre barrel, allowing a range of about 24 kilometres with the use of standard explosive shells. Ammunition with an additional rocket booster increases the range to about 30 kilometres, and the use of M983 Excalibur shells allows for the elimination of targets even 40 kilometres away. The firing rate of the M777 howitzer is a maximum of five shots per minute.

The eliminated Russian BM-27 Uragan are self-propelled artillery systems using 16-guide launchers and ZIL-135LM truck chassis. Units of this type can move at a speed of about 64 km/h.