Polish Krab howitzers in Ukraine: Transformation under fire
Polish Krab self-propelled howitzers have been active in Ukraine since the initial months of the conflict. Dozens of transferred units have demonstrated their effectiveness and high-quality craftsmanship. Based on combat experiences, Ukrainians are implementing their own modifications, improving the Krab even further.
The Krabs engaged in Ukraine have long since received additional equipment, including shields designed to protect them from drone attacks. Photos and videos from Ukraine show howitzers fitted with mesh screens protecting the hull's sides or distinctive cages securing the turret - such modified Krabs have been presented by the 26th Artillery Brigade, among others.
However, these modifications are ongoing, as reported by Defence 24. In mid-April, volunteers from the organisation Dzyga's Paw launched a fundraising campaign to equip the Krabs of the 26th and 40th Artillery Brigades.
The aim of the fundraising is to secure funds for the retrofit of 15 self-propelled howitzers. The modified Krabs will not only receive mesh screens and cages but also anti-drone jammers. The installation of additional equipment on the first Krabs was shown in the video shared.
The self-propelled howitzers are to be protected by cost-effective (about £5,300 per set) yet efficient jammers. In comparison to the cost of a Krab - estimated at almost £8.3 million, the cost of a jammer is relatively low.
Modifications to Krabs
The first Krab self-propelled howitzers arrived in Ukraine in mid-2022 as part of military aid provided by Poland. They performed so well that Ukraine, independently of the 54 howitzers provided by Poland, decided to purchase an additional 54 units along with accompanying vehicles for a record export order worth about £601 million.
Experiences from Ukraine clearly emphasise the importance not only of the armour on the self-propelled howitzers, which protects them from close-range explosions of artillery shells or missiles, but also of anti-drone protection. By the end of 2024, the Russians had managed to destroy or temporarily disable at least 36 Krabs.
The howitzers are vulnerable 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 show, additional physical barriers can, in some cases, save valuable equipment from destruction. The chances of survival will significantly increase when jammers are combined with the physical protections.
