Russian Lancet Drones Knock Out 200 U.S. M777 Howitzers in Ukraine

Nearly 200 American-made M777 howitzers supplied to Ukraine have been destroyed by Russian Lancet reconnaissance and strike drones, drone maker ZALA has claimed.

The company released images confirming the destruction of these artillery pieces.

The M777 is a lightweight, 155mm howitzer valued at nearly $4 million per unit. It is a key component of Ukraine’s artillery forces, with the U.S. providing 142 units, while Australia and Canada contributed six and four, respectively, according to the Kiel Institute.

Capable of firing up to five rounds per minute at distances of 25 miles (40 km) with precision-guided Excalibur shells, the M777 has been a critical asset for Ukrainian forces.

However, Russian forces have actively targeted these howitzers using Lancet drones, which have been credited with destroying almost 45% of NATO-supplied artillery systems in Ukraine since February 2022, according to the EurAsian Times. Despite efforts to camouflage and position M777s away from the front lines, Russian drone operators continue to locate and strike them.

The Lancet, designed for reconnaissance and precision strikes, has gained attention for its role in the conflict. At the Aero India 2025 exhibition, Russia presented the Lancet-E, an export version featuring the Izdeliye 52 and Izdeliye 51 loitering munitions, along with the Z-16 reconnaissance drone. Rosoboronexport estimates the drone’s export potential at over 1,000 units, positioning it as a competitor in the global loitering munition market.