The Russian defense sector is advancing into high-tech artillery with the introduction of a new precision-guided artillery shell tailored for the 2S42 Lotos self-propelled gun. Developed by TsNIItochmash JSC, part of the expansive Rostec conglomerate, this cutting-edge shell is anticipated to achieve an impressive range of 30 kilometers.
While specifics regarding the shell’s final testing phases and anticipated completion dates are not publicly available, this development marks a significant enhancement in Russia’s artillery capabilities. The 2S42 Lotos is a highly mobile, automated artillery system intended for the Russian airborne forces, showcasing operational flexibility on the battlefield with a diverse array of munitions, from high-explosive rounds to guided shells, providing versatility for various combat scenarios.
The TsNIItochmash team has also expressed plans to install the Lotos gun on other platforms, including the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle and possibly wheeled chassis. This adaptability could standardize the Lotos across multiple units within the Russian ground forces, integrating it with the country’s primary battle systems and enhancing its effectiveness in different combat environments.
In a recent live demonstration, the 2S42 Lotos employed RDG-U smoke grenades, which create a protective smoke screen around the vehicle. This screen acts as a “thermal veil,” decreasing vulnerability to precision-guided munitions and thermal imaging, thereby safeguarding the Lotos from enemy targeting systems.
With a 120 mm caliber, the Lotos gun can fire six to eight rounds per minute, achieving an operational range of up to 13 kilometers. Despite its relatively lightweight armor, primarily designed to withstand small arms fire and shrapnel, the Lotos is equipped with an active protection system and advanced sensors that bolster its survivability and tactical effectiveness in hostile situations.
The onboard fire-control system, complemented by specialized optical-electronic and infrared sensors, enables accurate targeting even in low-visibility conditions. Moreover, the Lotos features a digital communication system that facilitates real-time information sharing with allied units, enhancing coordinated fire support.
The development of the 2S42 Lotos began in 2019, with extensive testing under extreme conditions. Trials throughout 2020 focused on evaluating its firing precision and interoperability with other military units, positioning the Lotos to replace older self-propelled systems such as the 2S9 Nona-S and the 2S31 Vienna. In comparison to its predecessors, the Lotos provides significantly enhanced technical specifications tailored for airborne operations.
Reports from field tests in Ukraine surfaced in 2022 and 2023, with Russian sources claiming that the Lotos showcased impressive accuracy and mobility in targeting fortified Ukrainian positions. Although official confirmations of its widespread deployment are limited, its reputation for effective performance has been highlighted by these accounts.
In addition to the standard model, upgraded versions featuring improved electronic protection and navigation capabilities are in development, aiming to enhance both resilience and firing precision. The Lotos is also equipped with a radiological and chemical protection module, allowing the vehicle and crew to operate in contaminated environments, thus increasing battlefield survivability.
This new guided artillery shell adds to a portfolio of specialized munitions, including the Krasnopol, a renowned 152-mm laser-guided projectile produced by the Russian KBP Instrument Design Bureau. The Krasnopol features a laser receiver that activates upon target illumination, allowing for high-precision strikes up to 20 kilometers. Recent versions have extended this range to 25 kilometers and can be deployed by various Russian artillery systems, including the 2S19 Msta-S self-propelled howitzer and the D-20 towed howitzer.
Another notable innovation is the Centimeter, a 152-mm guided shell with a distinctive dual-guidance system. While it may not be as prominent as the Krasnopol, the Centimeter can still engage protected targets at distances of up to 20 kilometers and is compatible with the same artillery platforms.
For the 120-mm caliber category, Russia has introduced the Kitolov, a laser-guided shell designed for self-propelled mortars such as the 2S9 Nona-S and the upcoming 2S42 Lotos. The Kitolov is engineered to target lightly armored vehicles, fortified positions, and personnel at ranges between 9 and 12 kilometers, optimizing ammunition use while ensuring high accuracy.
Recent advancements also include the Gran shell, tailored for modern systems like the 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV howitzer. With a range of up to 70 kilometers, the Gran ranks among the longest-range artillery munitions in Russia’s arsenal, employing both inertial and satellite guidance to maintain accuracy over long distances without relying on laser designators.
These precision-guided munitions play a crucial role in contemporary Russian artillery doctrine, facilitating rapid and efficient target elimination with minimal ammunition expenditure. In the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, guided shells have proven essential, enhancing artillery support effectiveness and enabling precise coordination with reconnaissance units.
