2s1

The 2S1 Gvozdika is a Soviet 122 mm self-propelled howitzer developed in the 1960s and entering service in 1967. It is mounted on a lightly modified MT-LB tracked chassis, with a rotating turret that houses the 122 mm howitzer 2A18. Designed to provide indirect fire support for mechanized and motorized units, the 2S1 was widely exported and remained in service with numerous countries into the late 20th century and beyond in various roles.

Design and armament: The 2S1 features a 360-degree turret traverse and gun elevation from roughly -5 to +65 degrees. It is crewed by four personnel: commander, driver, gunner, and loader. The weapon fires standard 122 mm high-explosive fragmentation and smoke rounds. Ammunition is carried on board with additional rounds supplied from support vehicles as needed. Fire control is relatively basic by modern standards, relying on optical sights and commands from the crew or forward observers.

Performance and mobility: The 2S1 is built on the MT-LB chassis, providing mixed on- and off-road mobility for its era. Its armor offers protection against small arms and shell fragments but is not designed for frontline assault. The system emphasizes rapid deployment, indirect fire capability, and compatibility with conventional mechanized formations.

Operational history and variants: The 2S1 saw widespread use in the Soviet Army, Warsaw Pact forces, and numerous export users. It participated in several regional conflicts during the late Cold War period. Various modernization programs and country-specific upgrades have produced improved fire-control and logistical configurations, though the core 2S1 design remains the baseline reference for this class of self-propelled howitzers.