Self-propelled artillery installations 2S1 "Carnation" at the moment are one of the most common self-propelled guns in the world. They are in service with almost four dozen armies.
These self-propelled guns continue to be operated by the Russian military. They are also present in the states of the former Soviet Union, and in the armed forces of other countries, including those that are members of NATO.
For the simplicity and reliability of the "Carnation" is very much appreciated by the gunners of the countries of Asia and Africa.
At the time of adoption (this happened half a century ago), the 2C1 was the best in its class. The designers of the Kharkiv tractor plant made extensive use of the developments gained in the creation of the multi-purpose light-armored tractor-tractor MT-LB, which by that time had already proven itself well in the military.
Installed 122-mm howitzers 2A31 (Sverdlovsk OKB-9) can hit targets with high-explosive shells at a distance of up to 15200 meters.
There are also active-rocket ammunition with an increased range of up to 21900 meters. The ammunition included and controlled through a laser beam "Whaler".
The maximum rate of fire is up to 6 rounds per minute.
Self-propelled guns have a light armor that protects against bullets and shrapnel. Engine power 300 hp Speed on the highway-60 km / h, afloat 4.5 km/h. Fuel reserve-500 km. Combat weight - 15700 kg. Crew - 4 people.
"Carnations" were actively used by a limited contingent of Soviet troops in Afghanistan. They were thrown into battle from the very beginning of the Iran-Iraq War.
Later, they were involved in dozens of other armed conflicts. Currently, such self-propelled guns are fighting in Syria, Yemen and Libya.
Last year, it was reported that Serbia began updating the 2C1, which received electronic equipment that significantly increased the capabilities of these combat vehicles. It is expected that such self-propelled guns will be upgraded in other countries.
Video showing soviet made 122 mm 2S1 Gvozdika self propelled howitzers and T-55 main battle tanks transported by tractor head trucks of the Chadian ?? military during a parade. pic.twitter.com/RYLOgv12pj
— Hammer Of War (@HammerOfWar5) January 30, 2021
Alexey Moiseev