The MSTA-B 152mm howitzer has become an iconic weapon of Russia. Known for its destructive power, some call it the “city killer.”
In the last year of the war in Ukraine, the Kremlin claims to have annihilated enemy armored vehicles and fortifications with this formidable artillery weapon.
MSTA-B: a powerful and mobile weapon
The MSTA-B, developed during the Cold War by the Soviet Army, has proven to be a formidable artillery piece. Its simple but efficient design has allowed it to be improved over the years.
The howitzer offers excellent mobility with large blades on each track and swiveling drag wheels. It can be transported in armored vehicles or trucks at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour.
Various fire and ammunition capacity
The MSTA-B has the ability to fire a variety of projectiles, including those used by the older D-20 and the 2S3 Akatsiya. In addition, it can launch cluster munitions and low-yield nuclear warheads. To precisely target targets such as armored vehicles, buildings, and warships, Krasnopol laser-guided munition was introduced.
Scope and deployment in conflict
The maximum range of the MSTA-B howitzer with standard high-explosive ammunition is approximately 15 miles, while it can reach 18 miles with bleeding-based shells. Although it was initially developed to counter NATO armies, it was not used until 2014 in the Donbas war.
Both Russia and Ukraine have used the MSTA-B in the current conflict, and Ukraine has also received Western artillery systems to bolster its capabilities.
Frequent questions
What is the maximum range of the MSTA-B howitzer?
The MSTA-B howitzer has a maximum range of approximately 15 miles with standard ammunition and 18 miles with bleeding-based shells.
What type of ammunition can the MSTA-B fire?
The MSTA-B can fire various types of ammunition, including projectiles used by the older D-20 and 2S3 Akatsiya, as well as cluster munitions and low-yield nuclear warheads. It also has laser-guided ammunition, like the Krasnopol.
