Rostec handed over the first Malva self-propelled howitzers to the Ministry of Defense

Rostec handed over the first batch of Malva self-propelled howitzers to the Ministry of Defense. About it reported in the press service of Rostec.

“Rostec has shipped the first batch of 152-mm Malva self-propelled artillery guns (SAO) to the troops. The newest artillery mount is mobile, can automatically fire all types of ammunition and operate in simultaneous fire attack mode,” the statement said.

State tests of Malva were completed at the end of July. In August, the first deputy general director of the state corporation Vladimir Artyakov reportedthat Rostec is working on creating a modernized version of the Malva self-propelled artillery mount with an increased firing range to counter NATO howitzers.

The 152-mm self-propelled gun “Malva” is Russia’s first wheeled self-propelled howitzer. Its main differences from its tracked counterparts are greater maneuverability, due to which the gun can quickly deploy to a position and leave it before return fire, as well as lower operating costs. The gun is capable of firing more than seven rounds per minute and hitting almost any object at a range of 24 km.

In addition, the dimensions of the Malva allow it to be transported over long distances on an Il-76 aircraft, Rostec added. A self-propelled howitzer can be used to destroy command posts, defensive structures, air defense systems, etc.