Ukrainian drones target Russia's advanced 2S43 Malva weapon
Soldiers from the Flying Skull assault drone unit struck with one of Russia's latest weapons. Using two FPV-type drones, they attacked the 2S43 Malva artillery system. The effects of this action were captured on video. Let's recap what is known about the 2S43 Malva.
Ukrainian soldiers located the Russian 2S43 Malva artillery system while it was changing positions in the Kursk region. As reported by the military service, they then attacked the 152 mm caliber self-propelled howitzer using two armed FPV (First Person View) drones. The first drone hit the Malva's cockpit, and the second struck the artillery section, where fuel tanks and ammunition were located. Despite this, the vehicle was not completely destroyed.
2S43 Malva - one of Putin's newest weapons
The 2S43 Malva artillery system began being delivered to the Russian army at the end of 2023. In Ukraine, it was first observed in June 2024. From that moment on, the Russians boasted about further deliveries of 152 mm caliber self-propelled howitzers, as well as training soldiers to use them.
The 2S43 Malva was designed by the Central Research Institute "Burevestnik" in Nizhny Novgorod and is manufactured by Uralvagonzavod plants. The Russians emphasize that this weapon responds to the need for increased mobility and efficiency of Russian field artillery.
The Malva uses the BAZ-6010-027 wheeled chassis in an 8x8 configuration, which provides high mobility and the ability to move quickly on the battlefield. Thanks to the wheeled chassis, the system is lighter and cheaper to operate compared to traditional tracked howitzers. The vehicle is powered by a YaMZ-8424.10 diesel engine with 470 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 50 mph and an operational range of about 620 miles.
The crew cabin is lightly armored, protecting the five-person crew from small arms fire and shrapnel. The main armament of the Malva is a 152 mm gun-howitzer, capable of firing at a range of up to 15 miles with a firing rate of 7 rounds per minute. The system is equipped with a semi-automatic loading mechanism and can carry up to 30 shells. There are also plans to develop an export version with a 155 mm gun, compliant with NATO standards.
