The Lipetsk Mechanical Plant (LMZ) under the Kalashnikov concern has successfully fulfilled its 2023 obligations for the supply of self-propelled tracked chassis (SGSh). The completion of this government contract marks a crucial contribution to the enhancement of the Russian Armed Forces’ capabilities, particularly in the realm of air defense. The LMZ has delivered the self-propelled tracked chassis to the customer in full, showcasing its dedication to meeting the requirements of the Russian State Defense order. The plant not only produces and ships all modifications of the SGSh but also undertakes the responsibility of repairing existing SGSh units and manufacturing spare parts to ensure sustained operational efficiency.
In a notable development for 2023, LMZ expanded its product portfolio to include several innovative components. These include an armored housing for anti-aircraft missile systems, a lattice screen, a dynamic protection container, a mounted dynamic protection kit, and an additional protection kit. These additions highlight LMZ’s continuous efforts to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in defense manufacturing. One of the key recipients of LMZ’s self-propelled tracked chassis is the S-300V4 surface-to-air missile system, a vital component of the Russian Armed Forces’ air defense capabilities. The S-300V4 represents an improved iteration of the S-300V air defense missile system developed during the late 1970s and 1980s.
The S-300V4 employs advanced 9M82M and 9M82MV missiles with impressive ranges of 200 km and 350 km, respectively, demonstrating its formidable reach in both altitude and distance. The composition of the S-300V4 battery has been strategically optimized, with the launcher vehicle for larger missiles now integrated into the reloading vehicle. This modification enhances operational flexibility while maintaining the system’s mobility. The S-300V4’s ability to swiftly redeploy, changing positions multiple times a day, further underscores its agility in avoiding potential hostile strikes.
At the core of the S-300V4 system lies a special tracked chassis based on the 2S7 Pion 203 mm self-propelled gun. Leveraging automotive components from the T-72 and T-80 main battle tanks, and powered by a V-84 turbocharged diesel engine developing 840 hp, the S-300V4 ensures a potent combination of mobility and firepower. The inclusion of an auxiliary power unit adds to its versatility, enabling the system to operate seamlessly even when the main engine is turned off. The successful completion of the government contract by the Lipetsk Mechanical Plant reaffirms its pivotal role in fortifying the defense capabilities of the Russian Armed Forces. As geopolitical landscapes evolve, the innovations brought forth by LMZ underscore the importance of staying ahead in defense technology to safeguard national security.