Rostec has initiated the deployment of batches of their latest innovation, the 2S40 Floks (Phlox) 120mm self-propelled mortar system. The Floks artillery system represents a unique addition to Russia’s military arsenal, embodying a versatile blend of mortar and howitzer capabilities. Mounted on a mine-resistant ambush-protected high-mobility vehicle, the Floks offers the advantage of swift gun displacement following a series of shots. The combination of an armored cab and secure ammunition storage ensures enhanced crew and ammunition protection during transit and gun displacement. The Floks continues Russia’s tradition of naming artillery systems after flowers, underscoring its importance both for the Russian Army and potential international customers. This remarkable artillery system aims to replace towed artillery systems of similar caliber and was unveiled to the public in 2016, with trials expected to conclude in 2021.
What sets the Floks apart is its hybrid nature, combining features of mortar and howitzer, and its first-of-its-kind truck-mounted system. The self-propelled mortar uses some components of the 2S31 Vena self-propelled mortar system. The Floks is versatile in its munitions compatibility, supporting a wide range of options, including HEAT, HE-FRAG, smoke, and precision-guided Kitolov-2M munitions for precision attacks on armored targets. It can even fire 120mm mortar mines. With a maximum range of 13 km for conventional munitions and 10 km for precision strikes. The artillery system carries a total of 80 rounds of ammunition, with 28 ready for immediate use and additional rounds transportable by accompanying vehicles. With a firing rate of up to 8 rounds per minute for HE-FRAG and up to 10 rounds per minute for mines, the Floks is a formidable force on the battlefield.
The Floks also boasts a modern fire control system, offering exceptional accuracy and the ability to exchange firing data with an associated command post vehicle. It can operate independently, selecting targets with precision and speed. Designed for frontline operations, the Floks features an armored crew cab capable of withstanding small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. The cab’s floor can withstand blasts equivalent to 2 kg of TNT, and the vehicle is equipped with an NBC protection system. Furthermore, the Floks is armed for self-defense with a remotely-controlled weapon station featuring a 12.7 mm machine gun. Firing ports are also provided for the crew to use their individual weapons, enhancing the system’s defensive capabilities.
The Floks is based on the chassis of a new Ural-63704-0010 6×6 truck. The power behind the Floks is a YaMZ-652 turbocharged diesel engine, generating 440 horsepower. This Russian license-produced version of the Renault dCi 11 engine underwent enhancements to boost its performance. Coupled with a manual transmission, Hungarian Raba axles, full-time all-wheel drive, and a central tire inflation system, the vehicle excels in cross-country mobility over challenging terrains, including sand, snow, and mud. Additionally, with appropriate preparations, the Floks can ford water obstacles up to 1.75 meters deep. Operated by a crew of four, the Floks can be quickly prepared for firing and redeployed in minutes to avoid counter-battery fire, making it a highly adaptable and responsive asset.
