Germany and Ukraine have agreed to co-produce Bohdana wheeled self-propelled howitzers, integrating the artillery systems onto Mercedes-Benz Zetros military trucks. The initiative is aimed at accelerating Ukraine’s artillery output while reinforcing NATO-compatible firepower through Western-supplied platforms.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that the project will require an investment of €750 million and could yield up to 200 Bohdana systems. While the artillery assembly and integration will be conducted inside Ukraine, the Zetros vehicles will be delivered as part of Germany’s ongoing military aid, supporting front-line deployment.
The Bohdana program forms part of a larger set of bilateral defense deals valued at more than €1.2 billion, announced during high-level talks with Berlin. These agreements also include sustained logistical support for Patriot air defense systems, ensuring continued operational readiness.
Beyond artillery, the cooperation extends to joint drone manufacturing, with Ukraine partnering with Frontline Robotics and Quantum Systems to produce Linza electronic warfare-hardened drones in Bavaria. Germany will also fund the purchase of reconnaissance drones worth €200 million, while both nations agreed to exchange tactical electronic warfare technologies.
The Bohdana howitzer is a 155mm NATO-standard cannon mounted on a wheeled platform, delivering high mobility and long-range firepower. The system is crewed by five soldiers, weighs 28 tons, fires five rounds per minute, and can strike targets at ranges of up to 60 kilometers.
The Zetros tactical truck is optimized for rugged terrain and strategic mobility, including airlift by C-130 aircraft. Offered in multiple axle configurations, the truck features a 510-hp engine, payload capacity of up to 25 tons, and a top speed of 55 mph, making it a robust platform for modern artillery systems.
