2S35 Koalitsiya-SV

2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is a Russian next-generation self-propelled howitzer designed to replace the 2S19 Msta-S in frontline artillery units. Developed by Uraltransmash as part of the broader Koalitsiya artillery modernization program, it features a fully automated turret and a high rate of fire. The system entered service with the Russian Ground Forces in the early 2020s and was first publicly displayed at the Army-2015 international military forum.

Development and design

The development of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV began in the late 2000s under the Ministry of Defence (Russia) as a key component of the Armata Universal Combat Platform family of vehicles. The primary design bureau, Uraltransmash, aimed to create a highly automated system to reduce crew exposure and increase combat effectiveness. Early prototypes featured a unique twin-gun configuration, but this was abandoned in favor of a single, more reliable 152 mm 2A88 gun housed in an unmanned, remotely controlled turret. The design leverages advanced fire control systems derived from the T-14 Armata and integrates with the broader Strelets reconnaissance, command and control system. Significant testing was conducted at the Totskoye range and other facilities under the supervision of the Western Military District.

Specifications

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is based on a modified T-90 chassis, though future units may utilize the Armata platform. Its primary armament is the 152 mm 2A88 gun, capable of firing all standard Soviet and Russian 152 mm ammunition, including high-precision rounds like the Krasnopol and new M982 Excalibur-class projectiles. The automated loading system allows a maximum rate of fire of 10-12 rounds per minute and a maximum range exceeding 70 kilometers with rocket-assisted projectiles. Secondary armament includes a Kord machine gun on a remote weapon station for close defense. The vehicle is powered by a ChTZ V-92S2 diesel engine, giving it a top road speed of 60 km/h. The three-man crew operates from an armored capsule in the hull, with all gun functions controlled via digital interfaces linked to the AFK Sistema-developed battlefield management system.

Operational history

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV officially entered service with the Russian Ground Forces in 2020, with initial deliveries to units within the 1st Guards Tank Army. Its combat debut is believed to have occurred during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, where it has been deployed in support of offensive operations, particularly in the Donbas region. The system's long range and automation have been emphasized in reports from the Russian Ministry of Defence for conducting counter-battery fire against Ukrainian artillery such as the M777 howitzer and CAESAR self-propelled howitzer. However, its deployment has been limited, with at least one confirmed loss documented by Ukrainian forces near Kharkiv in 2022. Performance assessments have been part of larger strategic exercises like Kavkaz 2020 and Zapad 2021.

Variants

The main variant is the standard 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV on a tracked chassis. A wheeled variant, initially demonstrated on an 8x8 Kamaz truck chassis, has been proposed for export and for Russian Airborne Troops (Russia) units, though it has not entered serial production. A command vehicle variant, designed to coordinate battery fire, is also under development. The core turret and automation system, designated 2S36, is being considered for integration onto other platforms, including potential naval applications. The earlier, canceled twin-gun prototype is sometimes referenced as the 2S35-1.

Operators

The sole operator of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is currently Russia. The howitzers are in service with artillery brigades and divisions of the Russian Ground Forces, subordinate to commands like the Western Military District and Southern Military District. No export contracts have been confirmed as of 2024, though the system has been marketed to traditional partners of the Russian defense industry such as Algeria, India, and Vietnam at arms exhibitions like MAKS Airshow and DefExpo.

Category:Self-propelled artillery of Russia Category:152 mm artillery Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 2020s