Two Days with Ukraine's 154th Brigade Artillery on the Frontlines, in Photos
Amid the Russian invasion, Ukraine's 154th Mechanized Brigade stands ready. The 2S1 Gvozdika artillery unit delivers precision and power, remaining focused under pressure.
We spent two days with the 154th Brigade’s position near Vovchansk on the Kharkiv front, witnessing the crew’s relentless effort to load and fire, keeping their 2S1 Gvozdika howitzer primed for action. A UNITED24 Media operator signs a shell, which is then unloaded at the firing position.
In the midst of it all, brief moments of rest emerge—like a crew member savoring a smoke after a meal. But even in those quiet seconds, they stay alert. The command keeps a sharp eye on the crews, tracking their strikes on Russian positions.
A crew member loads new ammunition into the combat vehicle. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The ammunition for the 2S1 "Gvozdika" self-propelled howitzer is ready to be used against the Russian positions. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
A UNITED24 Media operator signs a shell before it is fired. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The crew unloads shells with practiced precision at the firing position. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
An artilleryman carries shells to the howitzer before it is loaded. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The 2S1 "Gvozdika" unleashes its firepower. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The senior artillery technician scans the road and sky en route to the firing position, his protective charm swaying from the mirror. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
A 2S1 "Gvozdika" crew member lights up, savoring a smoke after a hearty meal. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The artillery battery command oversees the crews as they target Russian forces and equipment. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
The art that graces the heart of the artillery unit. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
A local from Vovchansk’s outskirts visits the 154th Mechanized Brigade for firewood and supplies. (Photo: Mykyta Shandyba)
-46f6afa2f66d31ff3df8ea1a8f5524ec.jpg "Jess Daly")
-b8fcbbfe52c8c4ebd7d839f8da0d3498.jpeg "Daniel Kosoy")