Burevestnik to supply Russian army with 2S43 Malva 152mm self-propelled howitzer.

According to Russian defense sources, on August 16, 2023, Russian defense authorities signed a state contract with the Burevestnik Central Research Institute. This contract involves the production and supply of the 2S43 Malva 152mm 8x8 self-propelled howitzer to multiple military units, with indications pointing to its primary deployment within artillery brigades, including the Airborne Forces.
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The 2S43 Malva 8x8 152mm self-propelled howitzer exposed at Army-2023 (Picture source: Lord Bebo)

As production is underway, the initial units of this howitzer are anticipated in the forthcoming months, though exact delivery dates remain unspecified. Given the current military situation in Ukraine, there's potential for adjustments to the production schedule. Concurrently, a variant of the Malva with an augmented firing range is in the development phase.

Vladimir Artyakov, First Deputy Director General of Rostec, recently conveyed that the 2S43 Malva has finalized its state tests. The focus has transitioned to the evolution of an enhanced model, potentially labeled the 2S43M. This iteration is being developed with an aim to augment its firing range, a response to the long-range artillery supplied to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Artyakov's statements also alluded to overarching modernization initiatives. He emphasized the establishment of a scientific and technical reserve, grounded in frontline insights. This strategy encompasses both the refinement of current models and the conceptualization of new armaments.

The inception of the 2S43 Malva was under the broader "Sketch" project, a joint venture involving the Central Research Institute Burevestnik, NPK Uralvagonzavod, and other affiliated organizations. Launched in the late 2010s, the project's overarching plans were made public by General of the Army Oleg Salyukov in October 2020, targeting completion by 2022. The howitzer, initially showcased in 2019, successfully wrapped up its state trials on June 27, 2023.

Technically, the 2S43 Malva is outfitted with the 2A64 152mm gun, akin to the 2S19 Msta-S tracked self-propelled howitzer. This decision aligns with the 2S19's firing attributes, aiming for consistent logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. The Malva's specifications include the ability to launch 43-kilogram projectiles to a distance of 24,500 meters, with a firing rate of 7-8 rounds per minute. It accommodates a crew of five and has dimensions of 13 m in length, 2.75 m in width, and 3.1 m in height.

The 2S43 Malva is constructed on the 8x8 BAZ-6010-027 all-wheel-drive truck chassis, produced by the Bryansk Automobile Plant. It features an exposed artillery unit and an armored cabin for crew protection during transit. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with smoke grenade launchers and small arms for self-defense. The artillery unit is positioned at the rear of its cargo platform. Powered by a YaMZ-8424.10 diesel engine with 470 horsepower, it can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h and has an operational range of 1000 km without refueling. The howitzer's transport compatibility with the Ilyushin Il-76 Candid aircraft facilitates rapid deployment to remote areas.

In terms of mobility, the 2S43 Malva can navigate gradients of up to 60% and side slopes of 40%. It can overcome vertical steps of approximately 0.6 meters and traverse trenches up to 2 meters. Additionally, it possesses the capability to ford through water up to 1.4 meters deep.

In the context of the ongoing situation in Ukraine, the integration of the 2S43 Malva into Russian artillery brigades could present certain operational considerations. The howitzer's extended firing range, combined with its potential upgrades, may offer a broader scope in long-range engagements. The "simultaneous barrage" feature provides an option for coordinated fire, which can be utilized in various tactical scenarios. The mobility of the Malva, given its 8x8 chassis, allows for redeployment across different terrains, which can be relevant in the evolving conditions of Ukraine. Additionally, the design of the system prioritizes crew protection and efficient ammunition handling, factors that can influence operational decisions. Overall, the 2S43 Malva may introduce new dynamics to the artillery brigades' operations in the region.