The USSR began developing the 2S3 “Akatsiya” Self-Propelled 152mm Howitzer in response to NATO’s M109 in 1967. After decades of service and more modern variants, the 2S3 still sees active service in many countries, including Russia and Ukraine.
The 2S3 carries 46 rounds, but crew members can load additional rounds from an external ammunition vehicle. The 2S3 has a maximum fire rate of four rounds per minute and a sustained fire rate of one per minute to allow the barrel to cool.
The main gun for the 2S3 is a 152mm L/27 D-22 Howitzer. Along with a turret offering 360º rotation, the gun can elevate from -4º to +60º.
The original role of the 2S3 was to accompany tank divisions at a ratio of 18 per division. It also accompanied motorized infantry divisions at the same ratio.
Weight of Projectile: 95.9 pounds (43.5 kilograms)
Range: 20,232 yards (18,500 metres)
Detachment: Driver and three Gunners