Not To Be Missed: Polish Modern Artillery & Defence Power
Every year, the Armed Forces Day parade in Warsaw presents a massive exhibition of all defence materials within the country. This year, AHS Krab self-propelled howitzers are one of the main attractions among K2 Black Panther main battle tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, Patriot air-defence systems or F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.

AHS Krab is one of the most modern European artillery systems made by Polish manufacturer Huta Stalowa Wola. The turret and 155mm NATO-standard gun were developed in Poland, while the chassis belongs to the South Korean K9 Thunder. While conventional shells allow up to 40km, this can be pushed out significantly when using rocket-assisted projectiles.

The Krab can fire up to six rounds per minute thanks to its automatic loading system. It further boasts sophisticated satellite navigation, live drone camera feed connectivity and state-of-the-art comms to aid its performance in the crucible of combat.

Pivotal Ukraine vigorish, aspirations to expand
Poland currently has in service circa 80 Krab howitzers and foresees expanding this by between 120 and 150 vehicles as of 2024. This is part of an overall modernisation drive to beef up the Polish Armed Forces.

Another global stage on which the Krab is making waves for its combat effectiveness is in Ukraine, where the platform has participated in long-range strikes against Russian command centres, supply depots and defensive positions. Poland had supplied 72 Krab howitzers to Ukraine, through a mix of sales and military aid, since 2022.

For this year's military parade hosts, the Krabs stand not only as a tribute to their role in defending Poland but also as a sign of their continued dedication to regional security and support for allies.