Uraltransmash OJSC, a subsidiary of Uralvagonzavod, has completed the upgrade of 2S7M Malka self-propelled gun to the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation. The first upgraded Malka is ready for delivery to the armed forces and the enterprise is prepared for batch modernization of this heavy artillery system. One shot of the 203mm weapon can fully destroy a building used as a stronghold. Uraltransmash OJSC is the only Russian enterprise producing self-propelled artillery mounts.
The modernization improved the running characteristics, maneuverability, control and all major characteristics of the gun. Malka has successfully passed all trials to check maneuverability, running gear characteristics, the power plant and transmission. The loading mechanism, the durability of 2A44 gun and fire control were tested. Malka had the gearbox, internal communications and radio station replaced. Imported components procured in Ukraine were replaced by domestic ones.
The 2S7M Malka is the latest upgrade of the standard 2S7 Pion which is equipped with new communications equipment and can carry a total of eight 203 mm projectiles and charges. In addition, rate of fire is increased from 1.5 to 2.5 rds/min, durability of the system has been improved and firing data can be transmitted directly to the gun. Externally the only difference between them is a slightly lower engine deck behind the armored cab. The gun has a range of 37,500 m, but this can be extended to 55,500 m by using RAPs (Rocket Assisted Projectiles).
The 2S7 Pion or Malka is a Soviet self-propelled 203mm heavy artillery. It was identified for the first time in 1975 in the Soviet Army and so was called M-1975 by NATO , whereas its official designation is SO-203 (2S7). It is capable of firing nuclear ammunition. As for similar weapons in the United States, the 203.2mm M110 gun was decommissioned yet in 1990s, as the US military believed the effectiveness of large-caliber artillery was decreasing in modern conditions.
