What is it about the Russian artillery "sniper rifle" that is stirring up the entire Ukrainian battlefield?

In the context of the military conflict in Ukraine, Russian forces have particularly emphasized the effectiveness of the 120mm 2S9-1M self-propelled mortar system, a weapon likened to a "sniper rifle" thanks to its precise and flexible attack capabilities.

The system is impressive not only for its ability to use large-caliber artillery shells, including NATO standard shells, but also for its high mobility, which helps to increase artillery power on the battlefield. In recent times, the 2S9-1M has become a key element in wars, especially when facing important targets that require high concentration of firepower.

The 2S9-1M represents a significant upgrade of the original Soviet-era 2S9 Nona-S 120mm self-propelled mortar, featuring an advanced fire control system and satellite navigation. This modernization enhances accuracy, mobility and adaptability on the battlefield. Photo source: Hobby-models.ru

The system is a development of the 2S9 Nona-S, a Soviet-era self-propelled gun whose key features include the flexibility to fire both in indirect and direct fire modes. The upgraded 2S9-1M version, introduced in 2007, focuses on improving fire control and satellite navigation, significantly increasing the accuracy of combat operations. The Russian military has repeatedly praised the system's ability to fire two shells in quick succession, a particular advantage in battles that require rapid and accurate artillery support to neutralize strategic enemy positions.

One of the 2S9-1M’s key strengths is its ability to use a wide range of ammunition, including NATO standard ammunition, which optimizes its combat capabilities against Ukrainian defense units. This precision strike capability has proven effective in urban combat, where suppressing the enemy requires great flexibility. Deployment in Ukraine’s swampy or riverine areas has shown the system’s remarkable adaptability, as heavier artillery pieces have difficulty moving through complex terrain.

More than just a weapon, the 2S9-1M plays a key role in the modernization of Russia’s artillery. Older systems like the 2S9 Nona-S are being upgraded to a new standard, incorporating advanced fire control systems and satellite navigation, keeping them relevant to modern battlefield conditions. This has expanded the Russian forces’ capabilities when dealing with hybrid and asymmetric warfare.

Despite its success on the battlefield, the 2S9-1M artillery system still faces certain challenges. The system’s sustainability against modern counter-battery artillery that Ukrainian forces receive from the West remains a big question mark. However, the Russian military’s ability to utilize NATO ammunition has expanded its tactical capabilities, allowing artillery operations to be more effective in harsh conditions.

Overall, the 2S9-1M is proving to be a key strategic asset in the conflict in Ukraine. With its precision, versatility in ammunition use, and constant modernization, the system is helping Russian forces maintain their combat power on complex battlefields. Western analysts are closely monitoring the system’s performance to predict how future artillery systems may develop, especially in urban and hybrid warfare scenarios.

Source: https://congthuong.vn/sung-ban-tia-cua-phao-binh-nga-co-gi-ma-lam-khuay-dao-ca-chien-truong-ukraine-354402.html