Russia to announce 2S43 Malva deployment in Ukraine at Army-2023
In an interview conducted by Russian media on August 10, 2023, it has been reported that the forthcoming military forum "Army-2023" will serve as a platform for unveiling the future deployment of Russia's latest 152-millimeter self-propelled howitzer, the 2S43 Malva. The information is set to be disclosed by Vladimir Artyakov, the First Deputy Director General of Rostec, during the event.
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The 2S43 Malva is the latest Russian 8x8 wheeled self-propelled howitzer (Picture source Yandex)
The Army Forum is scheduled to take place at Patriot Park in Kubinka, near Moscow, from August 14 to 20. Organized under the Russian Defense Ministry's auspices, this event aims to provide insights into the advancements in Russia's military technology. "Malva has already passed state tests. Now its serial production has been launched. The first samples will be delivered to the troops in the coming months," Artyakov stated, shedding light on the imminent operationalization of the 2S43 Malva.
The 2S43 Malva is a new generation of Russian-made 152mm self-propelled howitzer that comes equipped with an automated system for calculating firing parameters across different types of ammunition. It also introduces a simultaneous fire attack mode, enabling the firing of multiple shells in quick succession for a coordinated impact on the target. The primary objective of the 2S43 Malva artillery gun is to engage a diverse range of targets, encompassing command posts, defensive structures, artillery and mortar batteries, air defense systems, armored vehicle formations, and enemy personnel.
The 2S43 Malva successfully completed second state trials last month (Picture source Russian MoD)
This new 2S43 Malva self-propelled howitzer is armed with the same 2A64 152-mm gun as the 2S19 Msta-S tracked self-propelled howitzer. This design choice leverages the advantages and firing capabilities of the 2S19 system, leading to improved logistics, maintenance, and supply processes. The 2S43 Malva's firepower includes the capability to launch projectiles weighing around 43 kilograms to a maximum firing range of 24,500 meters. Its firing rate is estimated at 7-8 rounds per minute, surpassing similar artillery systems. The 2S43 has a crew of five, and measures 13 m in length, 2.75 m in width, and 3.1 m in height.
The 2S43 Malva offers a distinctive "simultaneous barrage" mode, enabling the firing of multiple projectiles concurrently to saturate targeted areas. Automation aids in ammunition handling and fire control for the five-person crew. An autonomous power unit ensures an uninterrupted electricity supply while the howitzer is in position.
The 2S43 Malva is built based on the four-axle, 8x8 BAZ-6010-027 all-wheel drive truck chassis. The system comprises an exposed artillery unit and an armored cabin for crew safety during transportation. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with smoke grenade launchers and small arms for self-defense. Its cargo platform allows for various unit placements, with the artillery unit positioned at the rear. It is powered by a YaMZ-8424.10 diesel engine producing 470 horsepower, it can achieve a maximum road speed of 80 km/h and offers an operational range of 1000 km without refueling. Notably, the howitzer can be transported by the Il-76 transport aircraft, enabling swift deployment to distant locations.
The 2S43 Malva's maneuverability is highlighted by its capacity to navigate gradients of up to 60% and side slopes of 40%. Overcoming vertical steps of about 0.6 meters and traversing trenches up to 2 meters are well within its capabilities. Additionally, it can ford through water up to 1.4 meters deep.
The 2S43 Malva holds promise as a valuable addition to the Russian Ground Forces' divisional artillery. Its lightweight design, mobility, and cost-effective operation make it a valuable complement to existing tracked 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled guns. While it offers certain advantages over tracked systems, challenges in crew protection compared to tracked counterparts may need to be addressed.
The trend of employing wheeled chassis in artillery development offers enhanced mobility and resource efficiency compared to tracked vehicles, yielding a more cost-effective solution. The 2S43 Malva's faster deployment, disengagement, and targeting capabilities underscore this advantage. Countries such as China, France, Iran, and Ukraine have showcased their wheeled self-propelled artillery units, and Russia seeks to expand its footprint in this arena, considering the potential for export following rigorous testing and evaluation.