Polish Krabs in Ukraine: Adapting for modern warfare success
Polish Krab self-propelled howitzers have been actively engaged in Ukraine since the early months of the war. The units transferred have shown both their effectiveness and high-quality craftsmanship. Based on combat experiences, Ukrainians are implementing their modifications, further enhancing the Krab's performance.
The Krabs operating in Ukraine have been equipped with additional gear, such as shields, to protect them from drone attacks. Photos and videos from Ukraine display howitzers with mesh screens safeguarding the sides of the hull or distinctive cages securing the turret; these modified Krabs have been showcased by, among others, the 26th Artillery Brigade.
However, the modifications don't stop there. As reported by Defence 24, in mid-April, volunteers from the organization Dzyga's Paw initiated a fundraising campaign to equip the Krabs of the 26th and 40th Artillery Brigades.
The goal of the campaign is to secure funds for upgrading 15 self-propelled howitzers. The modified Krabs will feature not only mesh screens and cages but also anti-drone jammers. The installation of additional equipment on the first Krabs was showcased in a shared video.
The self-propelled howitzers will be protected by cost-effective (about $7,000 per set) yet efficient jammers. Compared to the cost of a Krab, estimated at over $11 million, the expense of a jammer is relatively low.
Modifications to Krabs
The first Krab self-propelled howitzers reached Ukraine in mid-2022 as part of military aid provided by Poland. Their performance was so impressive that Ukraine, apart from the 54 howitzers provided by Poland, decided to purchase an additional 54 units, along with accompanying vehicles, for a record amount, considering export orders, of about $715 million.
Experiences from Ukraine highlight the importance of not only the armour of the self-propelled howitzers, which protects them from close explosions of artillery shells or missiles, but also anti-drone protection. By the end of 2024, the Russians had managed to destroy or temporarily remove from combat at least 36 Krabs.
The howitzers fall prey not only to artillery fire but also to various types of drones, as well as loitering munitions from the Lancet family. As recordings of unsuccessful Russian attacks illustrate, additional physical barriers can, in some cases, save valuable equipment from destruction. The chances of survival will significantly increase when jammers complement the physical protections.
