Russia's New 2S42 Lotos 120mm Self-Propelled Mortar Spotted Amid Speculation of Ukraine Deployment.

A video released on Telegram on March 22, 2024, has unveiled the sighting of Russia's latest artillery innovation, the 2S42 Lotos, a 120mm self-propelled mortar system based on BMD-4M Airborne Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), now equipped with an armored cage. This development sparks speculation about Russia's potential deployment of this new artillery system in Ukraine, continuing the trend of utilizing cutting-edge combat vehicles in the conflict.
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The new Russian-made 2S42 Lotos 120mm self-propelled, mortar-tracked armored vehicle was spotted on the road, fitted with an armor cage, which could indicate future deployment in Ukraine. (Picture source: Telegram video)

The 2S42 "Lotos" represents the forefront of Russian military engineering, designed as a self-propelled 120 mm mortar system specifically for the Russian Airborne Forces. Built on the chassis of the BMD-4M, the Lotos aims to succeed the 2S9 Nona self-propelled mortar. With design work completed as of October 2018 and the first prototype constructed shortly after, the vehicle made its public debut in August 2019 at a defense exhibition near Moscow. Dmitry Yuryevich Semizorov, the General Director of TsNIITochMash, confirmed in an August 2023 interview with RIA Novosti that the Lotos had undergone preliminary trials from October 2020 to March 2022.

The Army Recognition editorial team reported in August 2023 that the 2S42 has commenced trial tests, marking the completion of its preliminary tests in August 2022. The Lotos underwent rigorous testing on land and water and was airdropped from various heights and angles. Following these tests, developers addressed identified issues, particularly with the on-board electronics, the shell loading system, and the chassis. Notably, modifications were influenced by insights gained from the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Equipped with a 120 mm breech-loaded mortar, the Lotos can function both as a mortar and a howitzer, capable of delivering direct and indirect fire. It boasts an automated loading system with a capacity of up to 40 rounds, including specially developed rifled rounds and 120 mm mortar mines, enhancing its lethality. The vehicle's maximum firing range reaches up to 13 km.

The Lotos is not just formidable in firepower but also in mobility and defense. It features a lengthened hull for increased capacity and protection, matching the BMD-4M IFV, airborne Infantry Fighting Vehicle. For self-defense, it includes a remotely controlled weapon station armed with a 7.62 mm machine gun and smoke grenade dischargers. Adaptations to the chassis have improved its speed and operational range, with the vehicle achieving up to 70 km/h on roads and 40 km/h on rough terrain. Remarkably, the Lotos retains amphibious capabilities, propelled by two waterjets, and can be air-transported and airdropped by an Ilyushin Il-76 Candid military transport, emphasizing its strategic mobility for airborne operations.

As tensions persist, the introduction of the 2S42 Lotos into the theatre of operations could signify a substantial shift in the dynamics of modern warfare, illustrating the continuous evolution of military technology in response to conflict demands.

The new Russian-made 120mm self-propelled mortar system was unveiled for the first time to the public in August 20219, during a defense exhibition that was held at the Patriotic Parc in the Moscow region. (Picture source Vitaly Kuzmin)

Close view of the 120mm mortar turret of the 2S42 Lotso. (Picture source army Recognition)

Defense News March 2024