Planning errors in ordering spare parts are increasingly jeopardizing the operational readiness of the German self-propelled howitzers in Ukraine. After the delivery of a total of 14 self-propelled howitzers in 2000, the German Ministry of Defense apparently did not order spare parts packages in time to regularly repair the weapon systems. That reports the news magazine “Spiegel”.
The howitzers are in daily use. The Ukrainian armed forces would fire up to 300 shells a day with them and the systems are expected to wear out accordingly, the report said.
Where’s the problem?
The majority of the artillery systems delivered are in need of repair due to intensive use at the front in eastern Ukraine. According to them, six of the weapon systems have already been brought to Lithuania for maintenance.
But parts were missing there, apparently that’s why one of the howitzers has already been cannibalized and is missing from the defense of Ukraine. The problem could be even bigger: the procurement office of the German Armed Forces had also called for orders of spare parts for the Mars II rocket launchers – but the relevant special staff in Ukraine had not issued any instructions, according to the “Spiegel”.
As early as July, a month after the German howitzers were delivered to Ukraine, there were reports of clear signs of wear and tear on the systems. At that point, the Bundeswehr had promised to quickly send more parcels of spare parts to the attacked country to solve the problems.
Consequences for repair companies in Slovakia?
The lack of spare parts could also affect the repair hub that Germany plans to set up in Slovakia in mid-December. had Federal Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht (SPD) said on Tuesday: “It can start immediately. The deal has been made.”
It is important that everything delivered after the battle can be repaired. Specifically, according to Lambrecht, it concerns the Panzerhaubitze 2000 or more rocket launchers.
The strengths of the system at a glance
Sources
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
