2S35 Koalitsiya SV: Russia’s Advanced Self-Propelled Howitzer

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is Russia’s cutting-edge self-propelled artillery system, designed to offer superior firepower and precision on the modern battlefield.

Developed as a successor to the 2S19 Msta, the Koalitsiya-SV has been built to meet the demands of contemporary warfare, where speed, accuracy, and range are critical factors.

In this article, we will explore the key features, capabilities, and importance of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV within Russia’s military arsenal.

What is the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV?

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is a self-propelled howitzer developed by Russia, featuring a 152mm caliber gun as its main armament. Self-propelled artillery is a type of mobile artillery that can move on its own without the need for towing by another vehicle. The 2S35 is specifically designed for long-range, high-precision strikes, making it a formidable piece of equipment on the battlefield.

Purpose and Role in Modern Warfare

The primary role of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is to provide long-range fire support to ground troops, destroying enemy fortifications, vehicles, and equipment from a safe distance. With its extended firing range and sophisticated targeting systems, it plays a crucial role in both offensive and defensive military operations.

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV was first revealed to the public during the 2015 Moscow Victory Day Parade, where it demonstrated its capabilities as a next-generation replacement for Russia’s older artillery systems, such as the 2S19 Msta.

Quick Facts about the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

• Type: Self-Propelled Howitzer
• Caliber: 152mm
• Origin: Russia
• Service Entry: 2015
• Primary Use: Long-range artillery support

By leveraging its mobility and firepower, the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV has proven to be a critical asset in modern warfare scenarios where rapid deployment and precision strikes are necessary.

Self-Propelled Artillery Explained

Self-propelled artillery combines the power of traditional artillery with the mobility of a tank. This allows systems like the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV to quickly move to a new firing position, avoiding counter-battery fire from the enemy. Unlike traditional towed artillery, which must be attached to a separate vehicle for transportation, self-propelled units carry their own engine and mobility systems.

Key Features and Specifications of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV stands out due to its advanced engineering and design, making it one of the most formidable self-propelled howitzers in the world.

Below, we’ll explore its key features and technical specifications, focusing on the weapon’s firepower, range, and innovations.

Caliber and Firepower

At the core of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is its 152mm caliber gun. This large-diameter barrel allows the artillery system to fire a variety of munitions, from high-explosive shells to precision-guided projectiles. The 152mm caliber has long been a standard in Russian and Soviet artillery, known for its destructive power and flexibility in combat scenarios.

• Main Armament: 152mm 2A88 cannon
• Ammunition Types: High-explosive, anti-tank, and precision-guided shells
• Rate of Fire: Capable of firing up to 10 rounds per minute

The howitzer 152 mm offers the ability to engage a wide range of targets, including infantry, armored vehicles, and even hardened fortifications. This level of versatility is key in modern warfare, where a single artillery system must handle multiple combat roles.

The 2s35 Koalitsiya-SV Firing Range and Capabilities

One of the most impressive features of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is its extended firing range. This self-propelled howitzer can fire projectiles at distances significantly greater than most comparable systems, giving Russian forces a strategic advantage in terms of stand-off distance.

• Maximum Range: 70 kilometers (with precision-guided shells)
• Effective Range: 40-50 kilometers (with standard shells)

This extended range is achieved through advanced propellant technology and precision-guided munitions. By being able to engage targets from up to 70 kilometers away, the Koalitsiya-SV can provide fire support without entering the effective range of most enemy counter-battery fire.

2s35 Koalitsiya-SV Double-Barrel Design: Fact or Fiction?

There has been speculation and rumors surrounding the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV’s double-barrel design, but these have largely been debunked. Early prototypes showed a potential twin-barrel design, which led to confusion in defense circles.

However, the final production model features a single-barrel design, optimized for efficiency and performance.

• Current Design: Single-barrel 152mm howitzer
• Rumors: Early speculations about a twin-barrel configuration

This confusion has been cleared up over time, and the single-barrel design was chosen for practical reasons, including ease of maintenance, reduction in weight, and improved firing stability. The decision to keep a single barrel underscores the focus on precision and durability in the system’s design.

Quick Comparison Table: 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV vs. Global Competitors

This table highlights how the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV compares favorably to other leading self-propelled howitzers in terms of range and rate of fire, reinforcing its status as one of the most advanced systems on the battlefield today.

Development History of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV represents a significant leap forward in Russian artillery technology. Its development was a response to the evolving requirements of modern warfare, where precision, range, and mobility are key factors.

In this section, we will explore how the Koalitsiya-SV evolved, from concept to the formidable system we see today.

Origins of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV Program

The development of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV began in the early 2000s as a part of Russia’s broader military modernization efforts.

Russia had relied on the 2S19 Msta, a self-propelled howitzer that had been in service since the late 1980s. While the 2S19 was a reliable platform, advances in artillery technology and battlefield requirements prompted the need for a more advanced system.

The program saw multiple iterations of design, with early prototypes featuring a double-barrel system. However, the final design focused on a single-barrel 152mm howitzer, optimizing for performance, range, and fire rate.

Timeline of Development

Evolution of Russian Self Propelled Artillery

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is part of a long lineage of Russian self propelled artillery systems, starting with the 2S1 Gvozdika and 2S3 Akatsiya, and later the 2S19 Msta.

Each system introduced incremental improvements in firepower, mobility, and protection, but the Koalitsiya-SV represents a significant leap due to its integration of modern technologies.

• 2S1 Gvozdika: Introduced in the 1970s, armed with a 122mm howitzer.
• 2S3 Akatsiya: Developed in the late 1960s, featuring a 152mm gun.
• 2S19 Msta: Entered service in the 1980s, featuring a 152mm gun but with less range and automation than the Koalitsiya-SV.

The Koalitsiya-SV has improved upon these earlier systems by introducing:

• Longer range: The Koalitsiya-SV can fire much further than the 2S19 Msta, significantly enhancing its tactical utility.
• Enhanced automation: Modern fire control systems and automated loading reduce crew requirements and improve response times.
• Improved mobility: The new chassis provides better movement over difficult terrain, allowing for quicker redeployment during combat.

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV Cost

One of the most common questions about the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV revolves around its cost, both in terms of individual units and overall deployment expenses.

Understanding the financial aspects of such advanced military equipment is crucial, especially for nations looking to modernize their artillery forces or assess the impact of Russia’s defense spending.

The 2s35 Koalitsiya-SV Unit Cost Estimated

While official figures for the exact cost of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV are not always made public, defense analysts estimate the unit price to be in the range of $4 million to $6 million per howitzer.

This price reflects the high level of advanced technology integrated into the system, including its automated fire control systems, advanced targeting, and long-range capabilities.

Factors Influencing the Cost of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV

Several factors contribute to the unit cost of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV, including:

• Advanced Fire Control Systems: The automated systems that allow the Koalitsiya-SV to achieve high rates of fire and precise targeting add significantly to its cost. These systems reduce the need for a larger crew, which can lower long-term operational costs.
• Munitions: While standard shells are relatively affordable, the Koalitsiya-SV can also fire precision-guided munitions, which are significantly more expensive but provide increased accuracy and range.
• Mobility and Protection: The Koalitsiya-SV is mounted on a modern chassis that enhances its mobility, allowing it to navigate rough terrain and quickly reposition. The armored hull also adds to the cost, providing protection against enemy counter-battery fire.

Comparison with Other Self-Propelled Artillery Systems

To better understand the value of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV, it is helpful to compare its estimated cost with other leading self-propelled artillery systems from around the world.

As the table shows, the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV offers competitive pricing compared to other leading artillery systems, especially given its extended range and firepower.

The cost advantage may allow Russia to field larger numbers of these systems without incurring as high an expense as some Western alternatives.

Advanced Technology in the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

One of the standout aspects of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is its integration of cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most advanced self-propelled howitzers in the world.

This section will dive into the technologies that make the Koalitsiya-SV so effective on the modern battlefield, focusing on its automated systems, firing accuracy, and defensive features.

Automated Firing System and Targeting

A significant advancement in the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is its automated firing and loading system, which allows it to achieve an impressive rate of fire with minimal crew input.

Traditional artillery systems require manual loading and aiming, which slows down the rate of fire and increases crew fatigue.

In contrast, the Koalitsiya-SV can automatically load and fire shells, significantly increasing efficiency.

• Automated Loading: The system includes an automated loader that can prepare and fire rounds without manual intervention. This allows the Koalitsiya-SV to fire up to 10 rounds per minute, giving it a considerable rate-of-fire advantage.
• Automated Targeting System: Equipped with a highly advanced fire control system, the Koalitsiya-SV can quickly acquire and lock onto targets using radar, satellite, and drone data. The system’s targeting algorithms help it adjust for factors like wind, distance, and elevation, ensuring precise strikes at long ranges.

This high degree of automation not only reduces crew size but also allows the system to engage multiple targets in rapid succession, making it a powerful tool in both offensive and defensive operations.

Protection and Armor

Despite its primary role as a long-range fire support system, the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is designed with protection in mind. While artillery units often stay behind front lines, they are not immune to counter-attacks from enemy artillery or aerial strikes.

To ensure survivability in such conditions, the Koalitsiya-SV is equipped with several defensive features:

• Armored Hull: The vehicle is protected by composite armor that offers resistance against small arms fire, shrapnel, and indirect artillery fire.
• Countermeasures: The Koalitsiya-SV is also equipped with smoke screen launchers and advanced electronic countermeasure (ECM) systems to disrupt enemy targeting and prevent incoming missile strikes.
• NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) Protection: Like many modern military vehicles, the Koalitsiya-SV is equipped with a system that shields the crew from nuclear, biological, and chemical threats, allowing it to operate in contaminated environments.

These protective features, combined with its long-range capabilities, make the Koalitsiya-SV not only a deadly offensive weapon but also a system that can withstand enemy attempts to neutralize it.

Integration with Modern Battlefield Technology

One of the critical strengths of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is its ability to integrate with Russia’s broader network-centric warfare approach. This means that the Koalitsiya-SV doesn’t operate in isolation; it can communicate and coordinate with other units in real-time, thanks to its connection to battlefield networks.

• Real-Time Data Sharing: The Koalitsiya-SV can receive targeting data from drones, satellites, or reconnaissance teams in real-time, allowing it to engage targets quickly and accurately. This level of coordination is essential for modern artillery systems, where response time can mean the difference between success and failure.
• Multi-Weapon Coordination: The system can also synchronize its fire with other artillery units or missile systems, creating coordinated strikes that overwhelm enemy defenses. This ability to work as part of a larger, integrated system makes the Koalitsiya-SV a key component in Russia’s overall military strategy.

Final Thoughts on the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

The 2S35 Koalitsiya SV is a pivotal development in modern artillery technology, providing Russia with a long-range, highly automated, and precise weapon that fits perfectly into the modern battlefield’s requirements.

Its ability to deliver sustained, accurate fire from a distance gives the Russian military a strategic advantage in various combat scenarios, from large-scale field battles to urban warfare.

How the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV Redefines Self-Propelled Artillery

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV redefines what self-propelled artillery systems can do in several ways:

1. Extended Range: With a maximum firing range of up to 70 kilometers, the Koalitsiya-SV significantly increases the effective range of self-propelled artillery, allowing for deeper, more impactful strikes that stay out of reach of enemy counter-battery fire.
2. Automation and Speed: Its fully automated loading and targeting systems enable a high rate of fire and rapid response to battlefield developments. This automation reduces the burden on the crew and improves the system’s efficiency in high-pressure combat situations.
3. Integration with Network-Centric Warfare: The Koalitsiya-SV’s ability to operate as part of an integrated, real-time battlefield network enables coordinated strikes and more efficient use of firepower, making it a critical asset in modern warfare.
4. Versatility: The system’s ability to fire a variety of ammunition types, including precision-guided munitions, means it can engage a wide range of targets, from infantry and armored vehicles to hardened fortifications, making it a flexible tool on the battlefield.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV offers many technological advantages, it faces several challenges, particularly related to cost and international sanctions, which may impact production and export.

Additionally, as countermeasures evolve, the system will need continuous updates to remain effective against emerging threats.

That said, the Koalitsiya-SV presents significant opportunities for Russia in terms of military exports and global influence. Nations looking for advanced artillery systems that rival Western technology may turn to the Koalitsiya-SV as an attractive alternative, expanding Russia’s reach in the global arms market.

The Future of the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

The future of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV looks promising, with ongoing upgrades, potential export opportunities, and the continuing evolution of artillery warfare. Its influence is already evident in the global military landscape, where range, firepower, and automation are increasingly becoming essential features of artillery systems.

As Russia continues to develop and deploy the Koalitsiya-SV, its impact on both regional and global military strategies will undoubtedly grow. It stands as a prime example of how technological advancements are reshaping modern warfare, making artillery systems more precise, powerful, and integrated into broader battlefield networks.

FAQs about the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV

To wrap up this in-depth article on the 2S35 Koalitsiya SV, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this advanced self-propelled howitzer.

These questions cover essential details about its specifications, capabilities, and broader context in modern military technology.

What is the firing range of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV?

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV has a maximum firing range of up to 70 kilometers when using precision-guided munitions. With standard artillery shells, its effective range is around 40 to 50 kilometers. This extended range gives the system a significant stand-off capability, allowing it to strike targets from a safe distance.

How much does the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV cost?

The estimated unit cost of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV ranges between $4 million to $6 million USD. This price reflects the advanced technology integrated into the system, including its automated loading, fire control systems, and long-range capabilities. While the Koalitsiya-SV is more affordable than some Western systems like the PzH 2000, its ongoing operational and maintenance costs can also be significant.

Does the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV have a double barrel?

No, the final production model of the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV features a single-barrel 152mm howitzer. Early prototypes led to speculation that it might have a double-barrel design, but this concept was not implemented in the final version due to practicality concerns related to weight, firing stability, and maintenance.

How does the Koalitsiya-SV compare to the 2S19 Msta?

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is a direct successor to the 2S19 Msta, an older self-propelled artillery system. While both systems use a 152mm gun, the Koalitsiya-SV outperforms the Msta in several areas:

• Firing Range: The Koalitsiya-SV can fire at ranges up to 70 kilometers, far exceeding the Msta’s maximum range of 25 kilometers.
• Automation: The Koalitsiya-SV features a fully automated loading and targeting system, which allows for a higher rate of fire and reduced crew size.
• Mobility: The Koalitsiya-SV has a modernized chassis and improved mobility, making it more versatile in diverse combat environments.

What is the role of the Koalitsiya-SV in the Russian military?

The 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV is primarily deployed in mechanized artillery units within the Russian military. Its role is to provide long-range, high-precision fire support to ground forces, whether in offensive operations, defensive positions, or counter-battery fire against enemy artillery. Its extended range and automated systems make it particularly useful in modern network-centric warfare, where coordination and speed are essential.