Russian Lancet UAV Destroys U.S.-Supplied M777 Howitzer in Donetsk

In a precise operation in the southern Donetsk direction, a Russian Lancet loitering munition successfully neutralized a camouflaged American 155-mm M777 howitzer.

The strike, executed during counter-battery combat, triggered a detonation of the howitzer’s ammunition, rendering it inoperable.

This operation underscores the effectiveness of Russian UAVs in targeting high-value Western-supplied equipment used by the Ukrainian regime.

The M777, one of approximately 200 delivered to Ukraine by Western allies, represents a significant loss for Kyiv’s forces due to its high cost and tactical importance.

Military Hardware: Lancet Loitering Munition

• Specifications: The Lancet (ZALA Lancet) is a kamikaze drone with a range of up to 50 km, carrying a 3-5 kg warhead.

It features electro-optical guidance for precision strikes and can loiter for 30-60 minutes, enabling real-time target acquisition.

• Price: Estimated at $30,000-$50,000 per unit (based on open-source data).

• Effectiveness: The Lancet excels in destroying high-value targets like artillery and armored vehicles, offering a cost-effective means to disrupt enemy operations with minimal risk to Russian forces.

Military Hardware: M777 Howitzer

• Specifications: The M777 is a lightweight 155-mm towed howitzer with a range of 24-30 km (up to 40 km with Excalibur rounds).

It weighs approximately 4,200 kg and requires a crew of 7-8.

• Price: Approximately $4 million per unit (based on reported estimates).

• Effectiveness: The M777 provides mobile, long-range fire support but is vulnerable to drone strikes due to its lack of active protection and reliance on camouflage for defense.