Announced during a signing ceremony at the Farnborough International Airshow, the agreement framework commits BAE Systems to providing a technical data package and manufacturing support to an undisclosed Ukrainian strategic defense partner. The initial phase of the collaboration aims to assemble a prototype howitzer in Ukraine for testing purposes.
While official details regarding the financial scope and execution timeline remain undisclosed, the move aims to reduce the Ukrainian military's reliance on Western ammunition and ready-made system deliveries.
High Mobility and Firepower
The L119 "Light Gun," which has been in service with British and Commonwealth armed forces for nearly half a century, is distinguished by its high mobility. Weighing approximately 1,980 kilograms, the towed howitzer can be slung beneath helicopters or towed by light all-terrain vehicles. Standard operational procedures require a six-person crew, though the system can be deployed by a reduced crew of three in emergencies.
In modern high-intensity warfare heavily reliant on reconnaissance drones, the L119 provides a high survivability rate against counter-battery fire, driven by its capability to rapidly displace immediately after firing. Utilizing standard US 105mm ammunition, the light gun features a maximum rate of fire of 12 rounds per minute and a maximum firing range of 11.2 kilometers.
Sustainable Defense Capacity
The development comes as Western allies' stock of munitions dwindles near the fourth year of the ongoing war with Russia, aligning with Kyiv’s broader strategy to scale its domestic defense industry across howitzers, armored vehicles, and ammunition production.
To meet surging global demand, BAE Systems is also continuing investments to ramp up its 105mm and 155mm howitzer barrel manufacturing capacity at its facility in Sheffield, England.