The 2S42 Lotos is a new self-propelled mortar system, designed for the Russian airborne and naval infantry units. The vehicle is presented for the first time to the public at Army-2019. According to our first analysis, the 2S42 is based on a BMD airborne tracked chassis but with 7 road wheels.

2S42 Lotos self-propelled mortar (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Lotos SPG is designed to meet the needs of the Russian Airborne Forces - it weighs only 18 tons and its 450 hp engine enables the vehicle to reach the speed of 70 km/h, with a range of at least 500 km.

Lotos is armed with a 120 mm breech-loaded mortar manually loaded. This artillery system can be used as a mortar or a howitzer, and delivers direct or indirect fire. The Lotos is operated by a crew of four who can fire six to eight rounds per minute, at a range of up to 13 kilometers.
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