Automated Control System Developed for Bohdana SPH, Automatic Loader Under Test

An automated control system has been developed for the Ukrainian Bohdana self-propelled howitzer, and an automatic loader is currently undergoing testing.

Colonel Andriy Zhuravliov, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Rocket Forces and Artillery Command of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces, shared this in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

Ukrainian forces are currently using domestic 155-mm artillery systems in both self-propelled and towed configurations at the frontline.

“As of now, the enterprise has developed and tested an automated control and guidance system for the gun, which speeds up aiming,” the colonel said.

He added that testing of an automatic loader for the howitzer is also underway.

Currently, a semi-automatic booster is installed on the self-propelled howitzer, but it is rarely used due to technical limitations. The design does not allow for simultaneous loading and aiming of the gun, according to military sources.

Zhuravliov also mentioned that the manufacturer is developing a third version of the artillery system with a shorter 39-caliber barrel. The current Bohdana is produced with a 52-caliber barrel.

He noted that, in addition to the self-propelled version, a towed version had been tested earlier this year.

The Deputy Chief of Staff highlighted several advantages of the Ukrainian Bohdana over foreign models.

The system can use a wide range of ammunition, simplifying logistics, and the barrel has a relatively long service life.

“It is likely one of the most reliable artillery systems in terms of endurance. Its operational readiness at the front consistently reaches 80%, giving it high survivability,” Zhuravliov said.

As of October 2025, domestic 155-mm Bohdanas, both self-propelled and towed, account for about 40% of all artillery systems deployed at the frontline.