Poland's Krab 2 Self-Propelled Howitzer With Autoloader Nears Testing

A new version of Poland's 155mm Krab 2 tracked self-propelled howitzer is approaching testing. PGZ told this to Defence24, which Defense Express cited. According to the company, the upgraded howitzer is being prepared for tests and factory trials, which will include live firing on prototype and pre-production units.

PGZ did not give exact dates for the start of this stage and spoke only of the "near future". On this basis, Defence24 concludes that firing trials could begin soon.

The upgraded Krab 2 is to receive an autoloader, an improved barrel able to withstand higher pressure, and a combat module. The improvements take into account the experience of using the howitzer in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which could have received up to 108 original Krabs since 2022.

In 2024, Poland ordered 48 Krab 2 units. That is half of a large contract for 96 of its own Krab tracked self-propelled howitzers. Deliveries under the agreement are to continue until 2029, so the start of testing in the near future looks logical.

According to Defense Express, this project will allow Poland to bring its artillery system closer to the level of the most modern counterparts. It will strengthen the Polish Armed Forces and could open the way to export contracts, since there are currently few new tracked self-propelled howitzers in Europe.

The PzH 2000, like the original Krab, has been used in Ukraine and showed good results, but it is very expensive for potential buyers. The tracked RCH 155 was shown at Eurosatory 2026 with a 58-caliber barrel, but so far no one has shown interest in it.

Meanwhile, European countries are actively choosing the South Korean K9. It has a fairly affordable price and can be supplied together with technology transfer and localization of production. The Krab itself was developed on the basis of the K9 chassis.