Azerbaijan Enhances Anti-Aircraft Capabilities with Modernized ZSU-23-4 Shilka at ADEX 2024.

At the ADEX 2024 International Defense Exhibition in Baku, Azerbaijan, the country’s defense industry unveiled a modernized version of the ZSU-23-4 Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft vehicle. This project, conducted in collaboration with Elbit Systems, CSG Defence, and Sumgait Technologies Park (STP), reflects Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening its air defense capabilities in the face of modern threats. Designed to provide short-range protection against aerial threats, the Shilka has been upgraded with advanced technologies to maintain its relevance in today’s and future battle environments.

Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The modernization of 23 ZSU-23-4 Shilka units, directed by the Czechoslovak Group (CSG), has significantly enhanced the vehicle’s capabilities, particularly in countering drones and other emerging aerial threats (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The modernization of 23 ZSU-23-4 Shilka units, directed by the Czechoslovak Group (CSG), has significantly enhanced the vehicle’s capabilities, particularly in countering drones and other emerging aerial threats. One of the most notable advancements is the installation of a rotating radar capable of detecting targets with a radar cross-section of 1 m² at 20 km, 0.1 m² at 10 km, and 0.01 m² at 7 km. This radar can simultaneously track up to 100 targets within a range of 15 km for 1 m² targets, 7 km for 0.1 m², and 4 km for 0.01 m², improving the Shilka’s interception capabilities against a wide range of threats.

The vehicle weighs 17.6 tons and is operated by a crew of four, who manage its primary weapon: four 23 mm AZP-23 automatic cannons. These cannons can fire between 3,400 and 4,000 rounds per minute, giving the Shilka an impressive rate of fire with an effective range of up to 3,000 meters. This allows the vehicle to effectively engage various targets, including aircraft, drones, and missiles.

The modernization also includes a new digital fire control system that precisely calculates the deflections needed to hit targets, enhancing the vehicle’s overall combat efficiency. Additionally, Elbit Systems’ COAPS-L electro-optical system has been added to visually verify targets, further improving engagement accuracy.

Other upgrades include a new Lombardini LDW1404 liquid-cooled diesel engine, replacing the original gas turbine engine, as well as a modern GPS-based navigation system. This update improves the coordination of the vehicle’s movements and positioning on the battlefield.

The modernization also includes a new digital fire control system that precisely calculates the deflections needed to hit targets, enhancing the vehicle’s overall combat efficiency (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The ability to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has also been enhanced with the installation of directional and omnidirectional radio frequency jamming systems. Three antennas for directional jamming are mounted on the left side of the Shilka’s turret, while an omnidirectional jammer antenna is located at the rear, providing comprehensive protection against UAV threats.

Moreover, the modernization project integrates a surface-to-air missile system from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS). The upgraded Shilka will be equipped with the Verba, the latest version of Russian MANPADS, offering an increased capability against longer-range aerial threats.

The presentation of the modernized ZSU-23-4 Shilka at ADEX 2024 demonstrates Azerbaijan’s commitment to bolstering its air defense capabilities in response to modern threats. With the integration of new technologies, the upgraded Shilka provides enhanced protection against a wide range of aerial threats while remaining a versatile and reliable platform for short-range air defense.