2S1 Gvozdika

2S1 Gvozdika
Country	Sovier Union
Type	Self-propelled howitzer
In service	1972–present
Built	10000+

Photo gallery of a 2S1 Gvozdika, The 2S1 Gvozdika (Russian: 2С1 «Гвоздика», “Carnation”) is a Soviet self-propelled howitzer based on the chassis MT-LB APC, mounting the 122 mm 2A18 howitzer. “2S1” is its GRAU designation. An alternative Russian designation is SAU-122 but in the Russian Army it is commonly known as Gvozdika. The 2S1 is fully amphibious with very little preparation, and once afloat is propelled by its tracks. A variety of wider tracks are also available to allow the 2S1 to operate in snow or swamp conditions. It is NBC protected and has infra-red night-vision capability.

Source: 2S1 Gvozdika on Wiki

2S1 Gvozdika Walk Around
Photographers	Olivier Carneau
Localisation	Unkow
Photos	49

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2S1 Gvozdika 09

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2S1 Gvozdika Walk Around
Photographers	Vladimir Yakubov
Localisation	Military Vehicle Technology Foundation
Photos	224

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General Characteristics and Role

The 2S1 Gvozdika (Russian: “Carnation”) is a Soviet-designed 122 mm self-propelled howitzer (SPH) developed in the late 1960s. Its primary role was to provide immediate, powerful, and mobile artillery fire support to motorized rifle and tank regiments at the battalion level. The 2S1 is based on the chassis of the MT-LB multi-purpose armored vehicle, making it highly mobile and, notably, fully amphibious. This capability allows it to cross water obstacles without preparation, a key requirement for Soviet doctrine. It remains widely used across the globe due to its simplicity, reliability, and versatility.

Property	Typical Value (2S1)
Type	Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH)
National Origin	Soviet Union
Manufacturer	Kharkiv Tractor Plant (KhTZ)
Entered Service	1972
Chassis	Modified MT-LB Multi-purpose Carrier
Crew	4 (Commander, Driver, Gunner, Loader)
Combat Weight	16,000 kg (35,274 lb)
Length (Gun Forward)	7.26 m (23 ft 10 in)
Width	2.85 m (9 ft 4 in)

Armament and Performance

Main Armament: 1 x 122 mm D-32 (2A31) howitzer (L/35 caliber).
Maximum Range: 15.3 km (9.5 mi) with standard high-explosive (HE) projectiles.
Extended Range: Up to 21.9 km (13.6 mi) with rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP).
Rate of Fire: 4 to 5 rounds per minute.
Ammunition: 35 rounds carried internally (40 rounds in later variants). The 122 mm caliber provides compatibility with a large family of Soviet/Russian shells.
Engine: 1 x YaMZ-238N V-8 water-cooled diesel engine.
Engine Power: 300 hp (224 kW).
Maximum Road Speed: 60 km/h (37 mph).
Amphibious Speed: 4.5 km/h (2.8 mph) (propelled by tracks).

Service History and Design Notes

Operational Use: The 2S1 has been used in virtually every major conflict involving former Soviet states and client states since its introduction, including the Soviet-Afghan War, the Chechen Wars, the Yugoslav Wars, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Amphibious Design: Its light weight and low ground pressure allow it to float, a major advantage in the swampy terrain often found in Central and Eastern Europe.
Export Success: Due to its affordability and reliability, the 2S1 was exported extensively and manufactured under license in Poland (as the Goździk) and Bulgaria. It currently serves in the armies of over 40 countries.
Modernization: Many current operators have modernized the 2S1 with digital fire control systems and NATO-standard communications gear, extending its service life well into the 21st century.