The Russia state-owned technology corporation Rostec has successfully completed official testing of 152-mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer, aptly named “Malva.” This cutting-edge artillery system boasts exceptional maneuverability, an extended service life, and significantly reduced operating costs compared to tracked gun mounts. The momentous achievement paves the way for its grand debut at the upcoming Army-2023 International Military-Technical Forum. The Malva wheeled self-propelled howitzer will take center stage at the Army-2023 forum, where Rostec plans to showcase an impressive array of state-of-the-art artillery systems. Alongside this groundbreaking innovation, the event will feature a selection of entirely new weapon models and battle-tested equipment that have proven their worth during rigorous military exercises, including the National Military Day.
The 2S43 “Malva” self-propelled wheeled howitzer is designed to eliminate command posts, defensive structures, artillery, rocket and mortar batteries, air defense systems, armored vehicle columns, and enemy personnel. Thanks to its advanced wheeled chassis, the Malva showcases superior maneuverability in comparison to tracked gun mounts, translating into quicker deployment, repositioning, and target acquisition. Among the Malva’s standout features is its unique “Multiple round simultaneous impact (MRSI)” mode, enabling multiple rounds to reach their targets in unison. This exceptional artillery piece boasts a firing rate exceeding 7 rounds per minute, supported by a substantial ammunition capacity. The use of an 8×8 all-wheel drive BAZ chassis empowers the howitzer to effortlessly traverse up to 1000 km on public roads without requiring refueling, and to master various off-road terrains.
Further enhancing the Malva’s capabilities is its capacity for multi-round simultaneous impact, ensuring optimal destruction of targets. The integrated onboard equipment streamlines ammunition handling and facilitates automatic fire direction. Notably, the howitzer incorporates an autonomous power generation unit for consistent electricity supply during firing operations. The Malva’s operational prowess extends to its ability to cover vast distances on public roads without refueling, and its capacity to be transported swiftly over long distances within an Il-76 aircraft. Built upon the BAZ-6010-027 8×8 high mobility chassis, the 2S43 Malva is equipped with a 152 mm ordnance, a refinement of the 2A88 cannon employed in the latest 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV self-propelled howitzer. The improved design allows for a rapid firing rate of up to 7 rounds per minute, with the howitzer carrying 30 rounds for its main gun.
While maintaining a focus on enhanced mobility, the Malva surpasses tracked chassis counterparts such as the 2S3, 2S19, and 2S35 in terms of weight and mobility. Additionally, its advanced gun-loading mechanism and hydraulic spade contribute to its impressive firing rate and stability. Owing to its classified development status, specific tactical and technical attributes remain undisclosed. The revolutionary 2S43 Malva’s integration onto the BAZ-6010-027 military truck chassis, produced by the Bryansk Automobile Plant, elevates its cross-country mobility. Offering remarkable self-deployment capabilities, this cost-effective artillery system presents itself as a game-changer within the Russian military arsenal. As discussions of deploying the Malva to the Airborne Forces emerge, anticipation mounts over its potential impact on modern warfare strategies. With its 152 mm ordnance, the Malva stands poised to transform artillery operations and secure a dynamic future for Russia’s military capabilities.
