Russia claims combat debut in Ukraine for Koalitsiya SPH
Koalitsiya self-propelled howitzers have reportedly been used in action by Russian forces in Ukraine. (Photo: Russian MoD)
Russian forces have reportedly employed the Koalitsiya SPH in Ukraine. If true, this marks the first combat use of the most modern and sophisticated artillery system in Moscow’s arsenal.
Russian state-run media outlets claimed in early July that 2S35 Koalitsiya 152mm self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) have fired in anger for the first time during the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
No further details or any official statements were provided and the claims are impossible to verify, but it is highly probable that a certain number of Koalitsiya SPHs are active in Ukraine.
In recent months, the pattern of warfare in Ukraine has shifted towards slow attrition in which both sides rely on tube and rocket artillery.
Deploying a modern SPH such as Koalitsiya would therefore be a logical move for the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![British Army's open plan draws diverse offerings for Land Rover replacement]()
British Army's open plan draws diverse offerings for Land Rover replacement
The UK Ministry of Defence has avoided being prescriptive in its search to replace the British Army’s Land Rover, meaning vehicle types being offered range from Land Rover Defender Wolf II and Humvee to the hybrid series Fering Pioneer. What does this mean for the procurement process?
-
![DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return]()
DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return
The introduction of Ajax vehicles into British Army service was stopped after operator health issues were reported during an exercise, but manufacturer General Dynamics Land Systems UK believes work over the past 10 months has dealt with the problems.
-
![Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow]()
Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow
The Military 850 Voyageur 155 Crossover has secured orders from the US Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, addressing demand for agile Arctic mobility with passenger, cargo and towing capacity.
