7A311

The 7A311 is a type of Soviet-era 152.4-millimeter (6-inch) naval gun, primarily used on warships during the mid-20th century. Developed in the 1930s, it was designed to provide heavy firepower against enemy vessels, aircraft, and shore targets. The gun was a refined version of earlier Soviet naval artillery, incorporating improvements in barrel life, firing rate, and accuracy.

The 7A311 was mounted on various Soviet warships, including the *Kirov*-class battle cruisers and later on some cruisers and destroyers. It fired a 45.5-kilogram (100 lb) shell at a muzzle velocity of approximately 880 meters per second (2,900 ft/s). The gun had a maximum range of around 27 kilometers (17 miles) when firing high-explosive shells, making it effective for both anti-ship and land-attack missions.

One of its notable features was the use of a semi-automatic loading system, which allowed for a relatively high rate of fire—around 5 to 6 rounds per minute per gun. The barrel was of a monobloc construction, which improved durability compared to earlier split-barrel designs. Despite its effectiveness, the 7A311 was gradually phased out as Soviet naval doctrine shifted toward missile-based warfare in the latter half of the 20th century.

The gun remains an important part of naval history, representing a key development in Soviet naval artillery before the widespread adoption of guided missiles. Its legacy is preserved in museums and historical collections, where it serves as a reminder of the technological advancements in mid-century naval warfare.