The Netherlands has ordered nine DITA self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine. Two Czech defense contractors will provide the 155mm guns, as announced by the Dutch defense ministry without revealing order details. The DITA howitzer is a modern firing system with a great range, and Ukraine has a significant need for this weapon.
The Excalibur Army-manufactured gun was unveiled in 2021 and has not been ordered by any other country yet. Ukraine has been interested in the wheeled gun since 2022, discussing it with Czech firm representatives in May 2022. The DITA is an upgrade on the 152mm DANA, offering twice the range at 39 kilometers and requiring only a crew of two.
The gun has a starting rate of fire of six rounds per minute, which decreases to five rounds per minute during prolonged firing. It can carry 40 artillery rounds and transition to traveling mode in 45 seconds. The 8×8 Tatra truck-mounted howitzer can travel at speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour on paved roads for up to 600 kilometers. Additional features include an uncrewed turret for automatic reloading and a fire control system that allows for a choice of munition based on aerial drone data.
