2S34 Hosta

[Zarvan]

The 2S34 Hosta is a modernized version of the 2S1 Gvosdika

Entered service 2012
Crew 4 men
Dimensions and weight
Weight 16 t
Length (gun forward) 7.57 m
Hull length 7.26 m
Width 2.85 m
Height 2.83 m
Armament
Main gun 120-mm gun/mortar
Machine guns 1 x 7.62-mm
Projectile weight 17.3 kg
Maximum firing range 7.2 - 13 km
Maximum rate of fire 8 ~ 10 rpm
Elevation range - 2 to + 80 degrees
Traverse range 360 degrees
Ammunition load
Main gun 40 rounds
Machine gun ~ 1 500 rounds
Mobility
Engine YaMZ-238N diesel
Engine power 300 hp
Maximum road speed 60 km/h
Range 500 km
Maneuverability
Gradient 60%
Side slope 30%
Vertical step 0.6 m
Trench 2.4 m
Fording Amphibious


The 2S34 Hosta is a modernized version of the 2S1 Gvosdika. However upgraded artillery system is a howitzers/mortar rather than howitzer. The 2S34 Hosta was developed in line with changing battlefield requirements of the Russian Army. Currently Russian Army operates a vast fleet for of ageing 2S1 Gvosdika self-propelled howitzers that could be upgraded in order to extend their operational life. Russian Army ordered the 2S34 Hosta in 2011. First production artillery systems were delivered in 2012. Currently approximately 30 of these artillery systems are in service with the Russian Army. It is also proposed for export customers.

The original 2S1 was adopted back in the early 1970s. It was widely exported to the Soviet allies from all around the world. A number of improvements and modifications were made in order to transform the 2S1 Gvasdika into 2S34 Hosta. It uses the same chassis, but has a new turret with new weapons. It uses some systems of the 2S31 Vena self-propelled mortar. It is worth noting that the 2S34 Hosta is proposed as a cheaper, but less capable alternative to the 2S31 Vena.

The original 122-mm howitzer of the 2S1 Gvosdika was replaced with a new 2A80-1 120-mm rifled gun/mortar. It has a semi-automatic loading system. This weapon evolved from that, used on the 2S31 Vena self-propelled mortar. It is a more potent weapon that can be used as mortar or howitzer, delivering direct or indirect fire. Maximum range of fire is 7.2 km with mortar mines and 13 km with gun shells. Various munitions can be used, including HEAT, HE-FRAG, smoke. It is also compatible with all munitions, developed for the Soviet/Russian 120-mm combined gun/mortar systems. It can also fire any 120-mm mortar rounds. For precision attacks against armored targets the 2S34 can use Kitolov-2M precision guided munitions.

Comparing with original 2S1 Gvosdika the 2S34 Hosta has a slightly reduced range. However it has twice the rate of fire and is overall a more versatile weapon.

There is a roof-mounted 7.62-mm machine gun for self-defense. Worth noting that the older 2S1 Gvosdika lacked any secondary weapons.

The 2S34 also has new fire control system that promises improved accuracy. This artillery system is also proposed with downgraded fire control system in order to keep the price down.

The Hosta uses the same chassis as the 2S1 Gvosdika. It is based on a modified MT-LB multi-purpose tracked armored vehicle chassis. Vehicle has a welded steel armor hull and turret. It provides protection for the crew against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle is also fitted with NBC protection system.

The Hosta is operated by a crew of 4, including commander, gunner, loader and driver.

Vehicle is powered by a YamAZ-238N turbocharged diesel engine, developing 300 hp. It is mated to a manual 5-speed transmission. Vehicle is amphibious, however the ammunition load must be reduced. On water vehicle is propelled by its tracks. Amphibious speed on water is up to 4.5 km/h.

This self-propelled howitzer can be airlifted byAn-12, Il-76 or C-130 transport aircraft.

2S34 Hosta Self-Propelled Howtizer / Mortar | Military-Today.com

 

[MMG]

"Vehicle is amphibious"... That is the best thing