The 2A65 Msta-B towed 152 mm howitzers (the most powerful Soviet artillery weapon) have once again proved its power during the Syrian war.
Photo: RIA Novosti / Ulyana Solovyeva
A year ago, the 2A65 Msta-B towed 152 mm howitzers appeared in Syria. During this period, the most powerful Soviet weapon has implemented a number of important tasks and showed that it is a bit too much early not to consider it as a rival.
According to the Vestnik Mordovii informational website, the 2A65 Msta-B howitzers became the main artillery systems of the Russian group in Syria. Initially, the howitzers and the Zoopark-1M radar system covered the Hmeymim airbase. And then the 2A65 Msta-Bs approved themselves in battles for the liberation of Palmyra.
The howitzers were spotted in the midst of the battle for the ancient city. Reportedly, now the weapons are involved in the storming of Aleppo, but already with Syrian detachments.
The enemy has absolutely nothing to counter to the power of these howitzers, weighing seven tons. The maximum firing range of the 2A65 Msta-B is 28.9 kilometers. The initial speed of a shell is 850 meters per second.
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Experts believe that the Msta-B has demonstrated high reliability and maximum adaptability to the conditions of the region in Syria. This weapon has a considerable combat experience. It took part in the second Chechen campaign, fought in Ukraine and Iraq.
Development of the 2A65 Msta-B was begun in 1976. Soviet armourers had a task to improve range and accuracy of firing of a howitzer, increase an angle of vertical guidance in comparison with previous models. In 1986, the weapon was accepted into service in the Soviet Union. The 2A65 Msta-B is intended for destruction of tactical means of a nuclear attack, artillery and mortar batteries, tanks, battlefield fortifications, air defense and anti-missile defense systems, as well as for suppression of manpower.
two things are missing: range and impact radius. also, commenting on how the introduction of this weapon has increased the SAA’s capacities compared to their similar weapons from before would be interesting. otherwise, it’s a very nice presentation!
It says range is 28 km, and impact radius is dependent on what shell is used, e.g it can fire nuclear shells so that would be much bigger than regulars one you know.