It is both easy and difficult to talk about Shilka. Easy, because Shilka has the longest track record of all the post-war anti-aircraft systems. But it is difficult, since there is no other such air defense complex, about which so much has been filmed and written in the foreign and domestic press.

One of the main reasons for the development of "Shilka" and its foreign analogues was the appearance in the 50s. anti-aircraft missile systems capable of hitting air targets at medium and high altitudes with a high probability. This forced the aviation to use low (up to 300 m) and extremely low (up to 100 m) heights when attacking ground targets. To detect and shoot down a high-speed target located in the fire zone for 15-30 s, the calculations of the air defense systems used then simply did not have time. What was needed was a new technique - mobile and high-speed, capable of firing from a place and on the move.
In accordance with the decree of the Council of Ministers of the USSR of April 17, 1957, No. 426-211, the parallel creation of rapid-fire ZSU "Shilka" and "Yenisei" with radar guidance systems began. It should be noted that this competition became the basis for an excellent result of research and development work, which is not outdated in our time.
Formally, the Shilka and Yenisei installations were not considered competitors. The first was developed for air defense of motorized rifle regiments, and the second - for tank regiments and divisions. Their design was carried out by two independent groups of design bureaus and enterprises:
- ZSU-23-4 "Shilka" - OKB-40 (Mytishchi Machine-Building Plant), Leningrad Optical and Mechanical Association (LOMO), Design Bureau of the Tula Radioelement Plant (current Scientific Research Institute "Strela"), Central Design and Research Bureau of Sports Small Arms (g . Tula), VNII "Signal" (Kovrov), Research Automobile Institute and Kaluga Experimental Motor Plant, chief designer of the installation - N.А. Astrov .;
- ZSU-37-2 "Yenisei" - NII-20, State Design Bureau and OKB-3 of the Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant, chief designer G.S. Efimov. For the fastest fulfillment of the task, previously created analogs were used.
The qualities of the prototypes were evaluated in comparative tests. Based on their results, the state commission made the following conclusions.
The radio control systems (RPK) of both ZSUs provide fire day and night in any weather.

- ZSU "Yenisei" with a mass of 28 tons cannot be used to arm motorized rifle units and airborne forces;

- when firing at MiG-17 and Il-28 aircraft at altitudes of 200 and 500 m, the Shilka is 2 and 1.5 times more effective than the Yenisei, respectively;

- mobility and the ability to fire at heights and ranges of up to 3000 m and 4000 m, respectively, allow the use of the ZSU "Yenisei" to cover tank regiments and tank divisions from air strikes when they operate in isolation from the main forces;

- ZSU "Shilka" and "Yenisei" are unified with other types of weapons. The first - with a 23-mm machine gun and shots to it, on the tracked base with the SU-85, the second - on the RPK modules with the "Circle" system and on the tracked base with the SU-10OP, which was being prepared for production.

Comparative tests also showed that the ZSU-23-4 in terms of combat value corresponds to a battery of four 57-mm cannons of the S-60 complex. In the conclusion of the state commission, it was recommended that both anti-aircraft guns be adopted. However, according to the resolution of the Council of Ministers dated September 5, 1962 No. 925-401, the ZSU-23-4 "Shilka" was adopted. After certain improvements, the Ulyanovsk Mechanical Plant launched mass production and already at the end of the 60s. the average annual production was about 300 combat vehicles. The installation became a standard air defense system for motorized rifle and tank regiments.

The team of the main developers (N.A. Astrov, V.E.Pikkel, Ya.I. Nazarov and others) was awarded the State Prize of the USSR for the successful solution of the task. The developers of the ZSU "Yenisei" were also awarded state awards.

And in the future "Shilka" repeatedly received high marks. One of the main advantages of the ZSU-23 is the ability to use it not only to combat low-flying air targets, but also against ground targets in combat operations of all types. Afghanistan, Chechnya, wars in other regions have confirmed the effectiveness of the ZSU-23-4 in the fight against a land enemy.

ZSU-23-4 "Shilka" is considered an autonomous combat vehicle. Its main elements are; a quad automatic 23 mm anti-aircraft gun AZP-23-4; radio device complex (RPK); electrohydraulic power tracking drives; communication systems, power supply, navigation and other equipment. The tracked self-propelled base of the GM-575 type of high cross-country ability provides high mobility of the anti-aircraft installation, it is divided into three compartments (control, combat and power), located in the bow, middle and aft parts, respectively. The compartments are separated from each other by partitions, which also serve as the front and rear supports of the tower.

Combat characteristics of ZSU-23-4 "Shilka" and ZSU-37-2 "Yenisei" (based on the results of state tests)

A 8D6 diesel engine, model V-6R (since 1969, after minor design changes, V-6R-1), is used as a propelling engine. A six-cylinder, four-stroke, compressorless diesel engine with a liquid cooling system is located in the rear of the ZSU. A working volume of 19.1 cylinders or a compression ratio of 15 create a maximum power of 280 hp. at a frequency of 2000 rpm. The diesel engine is powered from two welded fuel tanks (made of aluminum alloy) with a capacity of 405 li 110 liters. The first is installed in the bow of the hull. The total fuel reserve guarantees 330 km of run and 2 hours of operation of the gas turbine engine. During sea trials on a dirt road, the diesel engine provided movement at a speed of 50.2 km / h.
A power mechanical transmission with a stepped change in gear ratios is installed in the aft part of the combat vehicle. To transfer forces to the propeller, a multi-disc main dry friction clutch with a mechanical control drive from the driver's pedal is used. The transmission is mechanical, three-way, five-speed, with synchronizers in II, III, IV and V gears. Swing mechanisms are planetary, two-stage, with locking clutches. Final drives are single-stage, with cylindrical gears. The caterpillar propeller of the machine consists of two driving and two guide wheels with a track tensioning mechanism, as well as two track chains and 12 road wheels.
The suspension of the machine is independent, torsion bar and asymmetric. Smooth running is ensured by hydraulic shock absorbers (on the first front, fifth left and sixth right road wheels) and spring stops (on the first, third, fourth, fifth, sixth left and first, third, fourth and sixth right road wheels). The correctness of this decision was confirmed by the operation in the troops and in the course of hostilities.
The main element of the ZSU-23-4 is a welded tower. It combines reconnaissance, control and destruction of air targets into a single complex. Outside, in front of the turret, a cannon is installed, in the rear - a radar antenna, inside are the RPK and combat crew.
RPK is designed for round-the-clock combat work of "Shilki" in any weather and climatic conditions. It includes a gun aiming radar, a calculating device (SRP) and a sighting device.
The radar provides detection, capture for auto-tracking and determination of the current coordinates of air targets in a circular or sectorial view of the airspace within 30-80 in azimuth and 30 in elevation. It is a coherent pulse station of the centimeter wavelength range, which was chosen for a number of reasons. This range was notable for less congestion with other radio equipment, the ability to recognize and classify air targets, as well as the use of an antenna with small mass-dimensional characteristics. In addition, the susceptibility to intentional interference is markedly reduced.
With a pulse power of 100 kW and a beam width of about 1.5, the radar can automatically track a target from a range of at least 10 km when flying at an altitude of 100 m. The station is protected from passive and active interference. Depending on the situation, the determination of the coordinates of the target (azimuth, elevation and range) is carried out automatically, or the angular coordinates come from the sighting device, and the range from the radar.
Based on the current coordinates of the target, the SRP generates control commands for the hydraulic drives, which direct the guns to the lead-in point. Then the device solves the problem of meeting the projectiles with the target, and when it enters the target zone, it issues a signal to open fire. During state tests, with timely target designation, the Tobol radio device detected a MiG-17 aircraft flying at a speed of 450 m / s at a distance of about 13 km and accompanied it automatically from 9 km on a head-on course.
The Amur quad cannon (four 2A7 anti-aircraft guns) was created on the basis of the 2A14 assault rifle of the ZU-23 towed unit. Equipped with a liquid cooling system, a pneumatic reloading mechanism, guidance drives and an electric trigger, it provided firing at a high rate in short and long (up to 50 shots) bursts with a break of 10-15 seconds after every 120-150 shots (for each barrel). The gun is distinguished by high operational reliability, in state tests after 14,000 shots, failures and breakdowns did not exceed 0.05% versus 0.2-0.3%, determined in the tactical and technical assignment for its development.
The operation of the automatic gun is based on the principle of using powder gases and partly recoil energy. The supply of shells - lateral, belt, is carried out from two special boxes with a capacity of 1000 rounds each. They are installed to the left and right of the cannon, with 480 rounds for the upper and 520 for the lower machine.
Cocking of the moving parts of the assault rifles in preparation for firing and reloading is carried out by a pneumatic reloading system.
The machines are installed on two swinging cradles (upper and lower, two on each), mounted vertically on the bed, one above the other. With a horizontal arrangement (zero elevation angle), the distance between the upper and lower automatic machines is 320 mm. Guidance and stabilization of the gun in azimuth and elevation is carried out by power drives with a common 6 kW electric motor.
The gun ammunition includes 23-mm armor-piercing incendiary tracer (BZT) and fragmentation fuse-incendiary tracer (OFZT) shells weighing 190 g and 188.5 g, respectively, having a MG-25 head fuse. Their initial speed reaches 980 m / s, the table ceiling is 1500 m, the table range is 2000 m. A self-liquidator is installed on the OFZT shells, which is triggered within 5-11 s. In the tape, the BZT cartridge is installed every four OFZT cartridges.
The power supply system (EPS) provides all ZSU-23-4 systems with 55 V and 27.5 V direct current and 220 V alternating current, 400 Hz. It consists of: 70 hp DG4M-1 gas turbine engine; DC generator for generating a stabilized voltage of 55 V and 27.5 V; DC-to-AC three-phase current converter unit; four storage batteries 12-ST-70M to compensate for peak overloads, power devices and electrical consumers when the generator is not working.
For external communication, the installation is equipped with a R-123 short-wave radio transceiver station with frequency modulation. On medium-rugged terrain, with the noise suppressor turned off and no interference, it provides communication at a distance of up to 23 km, when it is on - up to 13 km. Internal communication is carried out via the R-124 tank intercom, designed for four subscribers.
To determine the location on the ground and make the necessary amendments to the RPK ZSU-23-4 has navigation equipment TNA-2. The arithmetic mean error of the coordinates generated by this equipment does not exceed 1% of the passed
path. In motion, navigation equipment can work without specifying the initial data for 3 - 3.5 hours.
To operate in conditions of contamination of the terrain with weapons of mass destruction, the installation provides for the protection of the crew from radioactive dust and harmful environmental influences. It is carried out by means of forced air purification and creation of excess pressure inside the tower by a central blower with inertial air separation.
Conducting combat work "Shilka", depending on the serviceability of the equipment, situation and external conditions, can be carried out in one of four modes.
The first mode (auto-tracking) is the main one: the current angular coordinates and range to the target are fed to the SRP (analog computer) from the radar that automatically accompanies it. The SRP generates anticipated target coordinates, which, taking into account the necessary corrections, pitching and yaw of the ZSU along the course in the form of guidance angles, are fed to the automatic gun guidance drives to the anticipated point. The fire is opened by the commander or the search operator - the gunner on the signal "There is data" on the SRP.

The second mode is used when the enemy sets up electronic jamming that disrupts the normal operation of the guidance system, as well as in the event of a malfunction of the target's auto-tracking channel in azimuth and elevation. The angular coordinates come from the sighting device, with the help of which the operator-gunner accompanies the target, and the range comes from the radar operating in the radio rangefinder mode.
The third mode is used when there is a threat of target loss in auto-tracking mode due to jamming or equipment malfunction. In this case, the anticipated coordinates are generated according to the last recorded values ​​of the current target coordinates and the rate of their change.
The fourth mode is used when the radar, SRP or stabilization systems fail. In this case, firing at the target is carried out using a double sight, and the aiming of the gun is carried out in a semi-automatic mode. The look-ahead is introduced by the operator of the search on the angle rings with the integer-backup.

Abroad, they have always shown an increased interest in Shilka. Foreign states have purchased about three thousand copies of "Shilka", currently they are in service with the armies of almost 30 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The ZSU-23-4 was widely used in combat and proved to be highly effective in destroying air and ground targets.
The ZSU-23-4 were most actively used in the Arab-Israeli wars of the 60s, October 1973 and April-May 1974. As a rule, in the armies of Syria and Egypt, "Shilki" were used to directly cover tank units, as well as anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM) "Kub" ("Square"), S-75 and S-125. ZSU were part of the anti-aircraft divisions (zdn) of tank divisions, brigades and separate mixed zdn. For the timely opening of fire in defense, the "Shilok" subunits deployed at a distance of 600-1000 m from the covered objects. In the offensive, they were located behind the forward units at a distance of 400-600 m. On the march, the ZSU were distributed among the column of troops.
Basically, ZSU-23-4 operated autonomously. Fire on Israeli planes and helicopters was opened from a range of 1500 - 2000 m (with visual target detection). The ZSU radar was practically not used in battle for a number of reasons, the main of which was the poor preparation of combat crews. The lack of centralized target designation and sharply rugged terrain significantly limited the capabilities of the ZSU radar station for timely target detection.
However, "Shilka" proved to be a reliable air defense system, capable of protecting troops from attacks from suddenly appearing low-flying air targets. During October 1973 alone, out of 98 aircraft shot down by Syrian air defense forces, the ZSU-23-4 had 11 targets hit. In April and May 1974, out of 19 downed aircraft, five were destroyed by Shilki.
As foreign military experts who analyzed the results of the 1973 Middle East war note, in the first three days of the fighting, Syrian missilemen destroyed about 100 enemy aircraft. In their opinion, this indicator is due to the successful use of the ZSU-23-4, the dense fire of which forced the Israeli pilots to leave from low altitudes to where the air defense systems operated with great efficiency.

Comparative characteristics of ZSU "Shilka", "Gepard"
(Germany) and "Volcano" (USA)

Shilka

Cheetah

Volcano
Year of adoption
The size of the affected area, km
- by range
- in height
Target speed, m / s
- when shooting towards
- when shooting in pursuit
Working hours, s
Number x caliber of guns, mm
Projectile weight, kg
The initial velocity of the projectile, m / s
The ability to fire on the move
All-weather work
Weight, t
Calculation, people

Shilka demonstrated a fairly high efficiency in Lebanon as well. From May 1981 to June 1982, the Syrian air defense group "Feda" conducted 64 firing and shot down 34 air targets - 27 combat aircraft, 3 helicopters and 4 remotely piloted aerial vehicles (UAVs). Six of them were destroyed by ZSU-23-4.
The overall efficiency coefficient of the ZSU-23-4 in these military conflicts was 0.15-0.18 for one installation with a consumption of 3300 to 5700 shells per shot down target. In addition, "Shilka" has shown high operational reliability and good cross-country ability in the mountainous desert area and the hot climate of North Africa.


Designed for direct cover of ground forces, destruction of air targets at ranges up to 2500 meters and altitudes up to 1500 meters, flying at speeds up to 450 m / s, as well as ground (surface) targets at ranges up to 2000 meters from a place, from a short stop and in movement. In the USSR, it was part of the air defense units of the ground forces of the regimental level.

History

One of the main reasons for the development of "Shilka" and its foreign analogues was the appearance in the 50s. anti-aircraft missile systems capable of hitting air targets at medium and high altitudes with a high probability. This forced the aviation to use low (up to 300 m) and extremely low (up to 100 m) heights when attacking ground targets. To detect and shoot down a high-speed target located in the fire zone for 15-30 s, the calculations of the air defense systems used then simply did not have time. What was needed was a new technique - mobile and high-speed, capable of firing from a place and on the move.

In accordance with the decree of the Council of Ministers of the USSR of April 17, 1957, No. 426-211, the parallel creation of rapid-fire ZSU "Shilka" and "Yenisei" with radar guidance systems began. It should be noted that this competition became the basis for an excellent result of research and development work, which is not outdated in our time.

In the process of performing this work, the OKB team at p / box 825 under the leadership of the chief designer V.E. Pickel and Deputy Chief Designer V.B. Perepelovsky, a number of problems were solved in order to ensure the effectiveness of the developed gun mount. In particular, the choice of the chassis was made, the type of anti-aircraft gun, the maximum weight of the fire control equipment installed on the chassis, the type of targets served by the installation, as well as the principle of ensuring its all-weather condition were determined. This was followed by the choice of contractors and element base.

During the design studies carried out under the leadership of the Stalin Prize laureate leading designer L.M. Braudze, the most optimal placement of all elements of the sighting system was determined: radar antennas, anti-aircraft gun barrels, antenna pointing drives, stabilization elements on one rotating base. At the same time, the issue of decoupling the sighting and gun line of the installation was quite ingeniously resolved.

The main authors and ideologists of the project were V.E. Pickel, V.B. Perepelovsky, V.A. Kuzmichev, A.D. Zabezhinsky, A. Ventsov, L.K. Rostovikova, V. Povolochko, N.I. Kuleshov, B. Sokolov and others.

Formula and structural diagrams of the complex were developed, which formed the basis for the development work on the creation of the Tobol radio instrument complex. The aim of the work was declared "Development and creation of an all-weather complex" Tobol "for ZSU-23-4" Shilka ".

In 1957, after reviewing and evaluating the materials on R&D "Topaz" presented to the customer by PO Box 825, he was given a technical assignment for the R&D project "Tobol". It provided for the development of technical documentation and the manufacture of a prototype of the instrument complex, the parameters of which were determined by the previous research project "Topaz". The instrument complex included elements of stabilization of the sighting and gun lines, systems for determining the current and anticipated coordinates of the target, drives for pointing the radar antenna.

The components of the ZSU were supplied by the counterparties to the enterprise p / box 825, where the general assembly and coordination of the components were carried out.

In 1960, on the territory of the Leningrad region, factory field tests of the ZSU-23-4 were carried out, according to the results of which the prototype was presented for state tests and sent to the Donguzsky artillery range.

In February 1961, the plant's specialists went there (N.A.Kozlov, Yu.K. Yakovlev, V.G. Rozhkov, V.D. Ivanov, N.S. Ryabenko, O.S. Zakharov) to prepare for the tests and presentation of the ZSU to the commission. In the summer of 1961, they were successfully carried out.

It should be noted that simultaneously with the ZSU-23-4, a prototype ZSU was tested, developed by the State Central Research Institute TsNII-20, which in 1957 was also given a technical assignment for the development of a ZSU ("Yenisei"). But according to the results of state tests, this product was not accepted for service.

In 1962, "Shilka" was put into service and its serial production was organized at factories in a number of cities in the USSR.


Engine

A 8D6 diesel engine, model V-6R (since 1969, after minor design changes, V-6R-1), is used as a propelling engine. A six-cylinder, four-stroke, compressorless diesel engine with a liquid cooling system is located in the rear of the ZSU. A working volume of 19.1 cylinders or a compression ratio of 15 create a maximum power of 280 hp. at a frequency of 2000 rpm. The diesel engine is powered from two welded fuel tanks (made of aluminum alloy) with a capacity of 405 li 110 liters. The first is installed in the bow of the hull. The total fuel reserve guarantees 330 km of run and 2 hours of operation of the gas turbine engine. During sea trials on a dirt road, the diesel engine provided movement at a speed of 50.2 km / h.

A power mechanical transmission with a stepped change in gear ratios is installed in the aft part of the combat vehicle. To transfer forces to the propeller, a multi-disc main dry friction clutch with a mechanical control drive from the driver's pedal is used. The transmission is mechanical, three-way, five-speed, with synchronizers in II, III, IV and V gears. Swing mechanisms are planetary, two-stage, with locking clutches. Final drives are single-stage, with cylindrical gears. The caterpillar propeller of the machine consists of two driving and two guide wheels with a track tensioning mechanism, as well as two track chains and 12 road wheels.

The suspension of the machine is independent, torsion bar and asymmetric. Smooth running is ensured by hydraulic shock absorbers (on the first front, fifth left and sixth right road wheels) and spring stops (on the first, third, fourth, fifth, sixth left and first, third, fourth and sixth right road wheels). The correctness of this decision was confirmed by the operation in the troops and in the course of hostilities.


Design

The welded hull of the TM-575 tracked vehicle is divided into three sections: controls in the bow, combat in the middle and power in the aft. Between them there were partitions, which served as the front and rear supports of the tower.

The tower is a welded structure with a shoulder strap diameter of 1840 mm. With its front frontal plates, it is fixed on the frame, on the left and right walls of which the upper and lower cradles of the gun are attached. When the swinging part of the gun is given an elevation angle, the embrasure of the frame is partially covered by a movable flap, the roller of which slides along the guide of the lower cradle.

There are three hatches on the right side plate: one, with a bolted cover, is used for mounting the tower equipment, the other two are closed with a visor and are air inlets for the ventilation of the units and the blower of the PAZ system. On the left side of the tower, a casing is welded on the outside, designed to remove steam from the cooling system of the gun barrels. In the rear of the tower there are two hatches for servicing the equipment.


Equipment

The radar-instrument complex is designed to control the fire of the AZP-23 cannon and is located in the instrument compartment of the tower. It includes: a radar station, a calculating device, blocks and elements of systems for stabilizing the line of sight and the line of fire, a sighting device. The radar station is designed to detect low-flying high-speed targets and accurately determine the coordinates of the selected target, which can be performed in two modes: a) angular coordinates and range are automatically tracked; b) the angular coordinates come from the sighting device, and the range - from the radar.

The radar operates in the range of 1-1.5 cm waves. The range was chosen for a number of reasons. Such stations have antennas with small weight and size characteristics, radars in the wavelength range of 1-1.5 cm are less susceptible to deliberate enemy interference, since the ability to operate in a wide frequency band makes it possible to increase noise immunity and the processing speed of received information by using broadband frequency modulation and signal coding. By increasing the Doppler frequency shifts of the reflected signals arising from moving and maneuvering targets, their recognition and classification is ensured. In addition, this range is less loaded with other radio equipment. Radars operating in this range make it possible to detect air targets developed using stele technology. According to the foreign press, during Operation Desert Storm, the Iraqi Shilka shot down an American F-117A aircraft built using this technology.

The disadvantage of the radar is its relatively short range, usually not exceeding 10-20 km and depending on the state of the atmosphere, primarily on the intensity of precipitation - rain or sleet. To protect against passive interference, the Shilka radar uses a coherent-pulse method of target selection, that is, constant signals from terrain objects and passive interference are not taken into account, and signals from moving targets are sent to the RPK. The radar is controlled by the search operator and the range operator.

Based on the current coordinates of the target, the SRP generates control commands for the hydraulic drives, which direct the guns to the lead-in point. Then the device solves the problem of meeting the projectiles with the target, and when it enters the target zone, it issues a signal to open fire. During state tests, with timely target designation, the Tobol radio device detected a MiG-17 aircraft flying at a speed of 450 m / s at a distance of about 13 km and accompanied it automatically from 9 km on a head-on course.


Armament

The Amur quad cannon (four 2A7 anti-aircraft guns) was created on the basis of the 2A14 assault rifle of the ZU-23 towed unit. Equipped with a liquid cooling system, a pneumatic reloading mechanism, guidance drives and an electric trigger, it provided firing at a high rate in short and long (up to 50 shots) bursts with a break of 10-15 seconds after every 120-150 shots (for each barrel). The gun is distinguished by high operational reliability, in state tests after 14,000 shots, failures and breakdowns did not exceed 0.05% versus 0.2-0.3%, determined in the tactical and technical assignment for its development.

The operation of the automatic gun is based on the principle of using powder gases and partly recoil energy. The supply of shells - lateral, belt, is carried out from two special boxes with a capacity of 1000 rounds each. They are installed to the left and right of the cannon, with 480 rounds for the upper and 520 for the lower machine.

Cocking of the moving parts of the assault rifles in preparation for firing and reloading is carried out by a pneumatic reloading system.
The machines are installed on two swinging cradles (upper and lower, two on each), mounted vertically on the bed, one above the other. With a horizontal arrangement (zero elevation angle), the distance between the upper and lower automatic machines is 320 mm. Guidance and stabilization of the gun in azimuth and elevation is carried out by power drives with a common 6 kW electric motor.

The gun ammunition includes 23-mm armor-piercing incendiary tracer (BZT) and fragmentation fuse-incendiary tracer (OFZT) shells weighing 190 g and 188.5 g, respectively, having a MG-25 head fuse. Their initial speed reaches 980 m / s, the table ceiling is 1500 m, the table range is 2000 m. A self-liquidator is installed on the OFZT shells, which is triggered within 5-11 s. In the tape, the BZT cartridge is installed every four OFZT cartridges.


Depending on the external conditions and the state of the equipment, anti-aircraft targets are fired in four modes.

The first (main) is the auto-tracking mode, the angular coordinates and range are determined by the radar, which automatically follows the target along them, issuing data to the calculating device (analog computer) for generating anticipated coordinates. The opening of fire is made on the signal "There is data" on the calculating device. The RPK automatically generates full guidance angles, taking into account the pitching and yaw of the ZSU, and issues them to the guidance drives, and the latter automatically direct the gun to the anticipated point. Shooting is carried out by the commander or search operator - the gunner.

The second mode - the angular coordinates come from the sighting device, and the range - from the radar. The angular current coordinates of the target enter the calculating device from the sighting device, which is guided by the search operator - the gunner - semi-automatically, and the range values ​​come from the radar. Thus, the radar operates in the radio rangefinder mode. This mode is auxiliary and is used in the presence of interference that causes malfunctions in the operation of the antenna pointing system along the angular coordinates, or, in case of a malfunction in the auto-tracking channel, along the angular coordinates of the radar. The rest of the complex operates in the same way as in the auto-tracking mode.

The third mode - the anticipated coordinates are generated according to the "memorized" values ​​of the current coordinates X, Y, H and the components of the target's velocity Vx, Vy and Vh, based on the hypothesis of uniform rectilinear movement of the target in any plane. The mode is used when there is a threat of loss of a radar target during automatic tracking due to interference or malfunctions.

The fourth mode is shooting with a double sight, aiming is carried out in a semi-automatic mode. The lead is introduced by the search operator - the gunner on the sight rings of the backup sight. This mode is used when the radar, calculating device and stabilization systems fail.


1-observation device; 2-shield; 3 - operator landing hatch; 4-antenna of the radar station; 5-antenna of the radio station; 6-commander's cupola; 7-engine; 8-compartment of the tower; 9-driver's seat Above left: scheme of firing with two installations

The power supply system (EPS) provides all ZSU-23-4 systems with 55 V and 27.5 V direct current and 220 V alternating current, 400 Hz. It consists of: 70 hp DG4M-1 gas turbine engine; DC generator for generating a stabilized voltage of 55 V and 27.5 V; DC-to-AC three-phase current converter unit; four storage batteries 12-ST-70M to compensate for peak overloads, power devices and electrical consumers when the generator is not working.

For external communication, the installation is equipped with a R-123 short-wave radio transceiver station with frequency modulation. On medium-rugged terrain, with the noise suppressor turned off and no interference, it provides communication at a distance of up to 23 km, when it is on - up to 13 km. Internal communication is carried out via the R-124 tank intercom, designed for four subscribers.

To determine the location on the ground and make the necessary amendments to the RPK ZSU-23-4 has navigation equipment TNA-2. The arithmetic mean error of the coordinates generated by this equipment does not exceed 1% of the passed
path. In motion, navigation equipment can work without specifying the initial data for 3 - 3.5 hours.

To operate in conditions of contamination of the terrain with weapons of mass destruction, the installation provides for the protection of the crew from radioactive dust and harmful environmental influences. It is carried out by means of forced air purification and creation of excess pressure inside the tower by a central blower with inertial air separation.

Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun ZSU-23-4: 1 - 23 mm anti-aircraft guns (4 pcs.), 2 - turret, 3 - infrared device, 4 - radar antenna, 5 - radio whip antenna, 6 - towing cable, 7 - armored body, 8 - cover, 9 - caterpillar, 10 - crew hatch, 11 - command hatch, 12 - driver's hatch, 13 - road roller, 14 - sprocket. In view A, the caterpillar is conventionally not shown.

In conclusion, let's try to simulate a battle episode in modern conditions. Imagine a ZSU-23-4 covering a column of troops on the march. But the radar station, continuously conducting a circular search, detects an air target. Who is this? Yours or someone else's? Immediately, a request for the ownership of the aircraft follows, and if there is no answer to it, the commander's decision will be the only one - fire!

But the enemy is cunning, maneuvers, attacks anti-aircraft gunners. And in the midst of the battle, she cuts off the antenna of the radar with a shrapnel. It would seem that the "blinded" anti-aircraft gun is completely out of action, but the designers have provided for this and even more difficult situations. A radar station, a calculating device and even a stabilization system may fail - the installation will still be combat-ready. The search operator (gunner) will fire using an anti-aircraft sight-backup, and introduce lead along the angle rings.

Abroad, they have always shown an increased interest in Shilka. Foreign states have purchased about three thousand copies of "Shilka", currently they are in service with the armies of almost 30 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The ZSU-23-4 was widely used in combat and proved to be highly effective in destroying air and ground targets.

The ZSU-23-4 were most actively used in the Arab-Israeli wars of the 60s, October 1973 and April-May 1974. As a rule, in the armies of Syria and Egypt, "Shilki" were used to directly cover tank units, as well as anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM) "Kub" ("Square"), S-75 and S-125. ZSU were part of the anti-aircraft divisions (zdn) of tank divisions, brigades and separate mixed zdn. For the timely opening of fire in defense, the "Shilok" subunits deployed at a distance of 600-1000 m from the covered objects. In the offensive, they were located behind the forward units at a distance of 400-600 m. On the march, the ZSU were distributed among the column of troops.


However, "Shilka" proved to be a reliable air defense system, capable of protecting troops from attacks from suddenly appearing low-flying air targets. During October 1973 alone, out of 98 aircraft shot down by Syrian air defense forces, the ZSU-23-4 had 11 targets hit. In April and May 1974, out of 19 downed aircraft, five were destroyed by Shilki.

As foreign military experts who analyzed the results of the 1973 Middle East war note, in the first three days of the fighting, Syrian missilemen destroyed about 100 enemy aircraft. In their opinion, this indicator is due to the successful use of the ZSU-23-4, the dense fire of which forced the Israeli pilots to leave from low altitudes to where the air defense systems operated with great efficiency.

CHARACTERISTICS - ZSU-23-4 "Shilka"

Combat weight, t 19
Crew, people 4
Overall dimensions, mm:
length 6535
width 3125
height in the stowed position 2576
height in combat position 3572
ground clearance 400
Reservation, mm up to 15
Armament 4x23-mm cannon 2A7 (artillery system AZP-23 "Amur")
Ammunition 4964 rounds
Firing range at air targets, m 2500
V-bR engine, 6-cylinder, 4-stroke, compressorless liquid-cooled diesel engine, power 206 kW at 2000 rpm
Maximum speed on the highway, km / h 50
Cruising on the highway, km 450
Overcoming obstacles:
wall height, m ​​1.1
ditch width, m 2.8
ford depth, m 1.07


ZSU-23-4 "Shilka", index GRAU - 2A6 is a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun made in the USSR, whose serial production started in 1964. Shoots at a frequency of 3400 rounds per minute. Targeting is carried out in automatic, semi-automatic and manual modes. The first two use a radar station.

The functionality consists in the elimination of air targets at altitudes up to 1.5 km and ranges up to 2.5 km, the speed of which is up to 450 m / s and surface (ground) targets, which are located at a distance of up to 2 km from a short stop, from a place and in move. It is also used for direct cover of ground forces. During the Soviet era, it was in service with the air defense units of the ground forces of the regimental echelon.

Potential opponents of the USSR noticed its great danger in relation to low-flying targets. But today, this ZSU is already outdated, mainly in terms of characteristics, a fairly short range of fire against air targets and the capabilities of a radar station. In order to replace the self-propelled ZRPK "Tunguska" subsequently appeared. Nevertheless, "Shilka" today still consists of anti-aircraft units in the armies of the Russian Federation, Ukraine, and other states and is successfully used in local conflicts for fire on ground targets.

1. Photos

2. Video

3. History of creation

The debut Soviet anti-aircraft self-propelled gun was the ZSU-57-2, the serial production of which started either in 1955 or in 1957. She had a very low combat effectiveness, and had only a low rate of fire, a manual optical guidance system and its low speed. Therefore, she could not shoot down jet high-speed aircraft flying at low altitudes. For these reasons, immediately after it began to be produced, two new rapid-fire installations with automatic radar guidance systems began to be developed. These are the ZSU-37-2 Yenisei with a twin gun mount 500P, caliber 37 mm, and the ZSU-23-4 Shilka, with a quad gun mount 2A7, caliber 23 mm. In addition, each of them was equipped with a radar guidance system and chassis. For the Yenisei it was the Baikal RPK and chassis from the SU-100P ACS, while Shilka's Tobol RPK and the chassis from the ACS-85 ACS. As for the use: the Yenisei had the task of providing air defense of the armored forces, and Shilka - the motorized rifle units.

Their prototypes were produced at the end of 1960, and state and factory tests were completed ten months later. Shilka was put into service in the fall of 1962. Its advantages over the Yenisei were revealed in the effectiveness of firing at high-speed targets at altitudes of 0.2-0.5 km, however, the Yenisei turned out to be better in terms of the maximum effective firing height. Its mass was 28000 kg, and Shilki - 19000, but their cost was almost the same. Since none of the systems turned out to be better than each other, they were both recommended for adoption, but the Council of Ministers of the USSR made the appropriate decision only about Shilka, and work on the Yenisei was stopped.

4. Tactical and technical characteristics

4.1 Dimensions

  • Body length, cm: 649.5
  • Body width, cm: 307.5
  • Height, cm: 264.4-376.4
  • Base, cm: 382.8
  • Track, cm: 250
  • Clearance, cm: 40.

4.2 Reservation

  • Armor type: rolled steel bulletproof (0.9 - 1.5 cm).

4.3 Armament

  • Brand and caliber of the gun: four AZP-23 "Amur", caliber 23 mm
  • Cannon type: small-caliber rifled automatic cannons
  • Barrel length, calibres: 82
  • Gun ammunition: 2000
  • Angles VN, city .: −4 ... + 85 °
  • Angles GN, city .: 360 °
  • Firing range, m: 200 - 500
  • Sights: radar RPK-2, optical sight.

4.4 Mobility

  • Engine type: V-6R
  • Engine power, hp from .: 280
  • Speed ​​on the highway, km / h: 50
  • Speed ​​over rough terrain, km / h: up to 30
  • Cruising on the highway, km: 450
  • Cruising on rough terrain, km: 300
  • Specific power, l. s./t .: 14.7
  • Suspension type: individual torsion bar
  • Gradeability, city .: 30 °
  • Overcome wall, cm: 70
  • Overcome moat, cm: 250
  • Overcome ford, see: 100.

4.5 Other parameters

  • Classification: self-propelled anti-aircraft gun
  • Combat weight, kg: 21000
  • Layout: classic
  • Crew, pers .: 4

5. Modifications

  • ZSU-23-4V - modernization. The service life of the gas turbine unit was increased from 300 to 450 hours and the operational reliability was increased. The conditions for the crew have become better. In order to guide the tracking radar station to the target, a command guidance device was used.
  • ZSU-23-4V1 - ZSU-23-4V was supplemented with a calculating and decisive device, due to which the reliability of auto-tracking of the target increased with an increase in the installation speed to 40 km / h, there was an increase in the efficiency and accuracy of shooting, as well as the resource of the gas turbine unit up to 600 h ...
  • ZSU-23-4M1 - modernization of the 2A10 cannon to 2A7M and 2A10M and 2A7 assault rifles to increase the stability and reliability of the complex. Barrels' survivability increased - up to 4500 rounds. The reliability of the radar station has improved, the resource of the gas turbine unit has increased to 900 hours.
  • ZSU-23-4M2 - modernized ZSU-23-4M1, for operation in Afghanistan. The PKK was removed, due to which the ammunition load of shells increased to three thousand pieces. Was installed night vision equipment for shooting at night at ground targets
  • ZSU-23-4M3 Biryusa is a modernized ZSU-23-4M1. Introduced ground-based radio interrogator "Bow" of radar identification system of air targets on the principle of "friend or foe"
  • ZSU-23-4M4 Shilka-M4 - modernization. A radar fire control system has been installed, it is possible to add the Strelets anti-aircraft missile system. It is used by the battery of the mobile reconnaissance and control station Assembly M1, as a command post and the introduction into the ZSU of a telecode communication channel for data exchange between the command post and the installation. The analog calculating device was replaced by a digital computer. A digital tracking system was introduced. The tracked chassis has been improved in order to increase the maneuverability and controllability of the self-propelled vehicle and reduce the complexity of its operation and maintenance. A passive night vision device is installed. Other radio stations, an automated control system for the performance of electronic equipment and an air conditioner have been installed.
  • ZSU-23-4M5 Shilka-M5 is a modernized ZSU-23-4M4. An optical-electronic and radar fire control system was introduced.

6. Machines based

  • 1S91 - self-propelled installation for guidance and reconnaissance of the "Kub" air defense missile system.
  • 2P25 - self-propelled launcher SAM "Kub".
  • "Sanguine" is a self-propelled laser system for counteracting optical-electronic devices of air targets.

7. Tactics

When anti-aircraft guns are involved in attacks, they provide support to tanks, moving behind them at a distance of approximately 0.4 km.

At distances of more than 2.5 km, firing at air targets is characterized by low efficiency and, because of this, it is possible only in self-defense. Three kilometers of its shells fly in six seconds.

7.1 Counteraction

The defeat of Shilka can be inflicted by helicopters with TOW anti-tank missiles, whose launch range can be more than 3000 m. above 10%.

8. Combat use

  • War of attrition - on the side of Egypt
  • Vietnam War - on the side of North Vietnam
  • Arab-Israeli War - Both Sides
  • Battles for Mount Hermon - on the side of Syria
  • First Angola Civil War - Angolan Side
  • Egyptian-Libyan war - on the side of Libya
  • Ethiopian-Somali war - on the side of Somalia
  • Afghan war
  • Iranian-Iraqi war - on the side of Iraq
  • Lebanese civil war - on the side of Syria
  • They were used to protect against US aircraft strikes against Libya in the spring of 1986.
  • Gulf War - on the side of Iraq
  • Armed conflict in Transnistria - both sides
  • The Karabakh conflict is on the side of Armenia
  • The first Chechen war - both sides
  • NATO operation against Serbia - on the side of Yugoslavia
  • The second Chechen war - both sides
  • Iraqi war - on the side of Iraq
  • The civil war in Syria is on the side of Syria.

Almost simultaneously with the start of mass production of the ZSU-57-2 on April 17, 1957, the Council of Ministers adopted Resolution No. 426-211 on the development of new rapid-fire ZSU Shilka and Yenisei with radar guidance systems. It was a kind of response to the adoption of the M42A1 ZSU in the US.

Formally, "Shilka" and "Yenisei" were not competitors, since the first was developed to provide air defense for motorized rifle regiments to engage targets at altitudes up to 1500 m, and the second - for air defense of tank regiments and divisions and operated at altitudes up to 3000 m.

The ZSU-37-2 "Yenisei" used a 37-mm machine gun 500P, developed at OKB-16 (chief designer A.E. Nudelman). The 500P had no analogues in ballistics, and its cartridges were not interchangeable with other 37-mm automatic cannons of the army and navy, with the exception of the low-volume Shkval anti-aircraft gun.

Especially for "Yenisei" OKB-43 designed a twin cannon "Angara", equipped with two 500P machine guns with belt feed. "Angara" had a system of liquid cooling of the barrels and tracking electro-hydraulic drives, which were later planned to be replaced by purely electric ones. Guidance drive systems were developed by the Moscow TsNII-173 GKOT - on the power tracking drives of the guidance and the Kovrov branch of the TsNII-173 (now VNII "Signal") - to stabilize the line of sight and the firing line.

Guidance of the "Angara" was carried out with the help of the anti-jamming RPK "Baikal", created at NII-20 GKRE and operating in the centimeter wavelength range - about 3 cm. Looking ahead, for example, it turned out during the tests that neither the RPK "Tobol" on the "Shilka ", Nor" Baikal "on the" Yenisei "could independently search for an air target with sufficient efficiency, therefore, the CM decree No. 426-211 of 17.04.1957 provided for the creation and transfer of a mobile radar for state tests in the second quarter of 1960 "Ob" for control of the SPAAG. "Ob" included the command vehicle "Neva" with the target designation radar "Irtysh" and RPK "Baikal", located in the ZSU "Yenisei". The Ob complex was supposed to simultaneously control the fire of six to eight ZSUs. However, in the middle of 1959, work on the Ob was discontinued - this made it possible to accelerate the fine-tuning of the Krug anti-aircraft missile system.

The chassis for the Yenisei was designed at the Uralmash Design Bureau under the leadership of GS Efimov on the basis of the chassis of the SU-10OP self-propelled gun. Its production was supposed to be deployed at the Lipetsk Tractor Plant.

The ZSU-37-2 had bulletproof booking, which in the places of ammunition placement provided protection against the 7.62-mm B-32 armor-piercing rifle bullet from a distance of 400 m.

To power the on-board network, the Yenisei was supplied with a special gas turbine engine developed by NAMI, the use of which made it possible to ensure quick readiness for battle at low air temperatures.

The tests of the ZSU "Shilka" and "Yenisei" were carried out in parallel, albeit according to different programs.

The Yenisei had an engagement zone in range and ceiling close to the ZSU-57-2, and, according to the conclusion of the State Commission, "provided cover for tank forces in all types of combat, since air attack weapons against tank forces mainly operate at altitudes up to 3000 m." ... Normal firing mode (tank) - a continuous burst of up to 150 rounds per barrel, then a break of 30 s (air cooling) and repeating the cycle until the ammunition is used up.

During the tests, it was found that one ZSU "Yenisei" is superior in efficiency to a six-gun battery of 57-mm cannons S-60 and a battery of four ZSU-57-2.

During the tests, the ZSU "Yenisei" provided firing in motion on virgin soil at a speed of 20 - 25 km / h. When driving along a tank track at a range at a speed of 8-10 km / h, the firing accuracy was 25% lower than from a place. The firing accuracy of the Angara cannon is 2 - 2.5 times higher than that of the S-68 cannon.

During the state tests, 6266 shots were fired from the Angara cannon, while only two delays and four breakdowns were noted, which amounted to 0.08% of delays and 0.06% of breakdowns from the number of shots fired, which is less than the permissible according to III. During the tests, the SDU (equipment for protection against passive interference) malfunctioned, while the chassis showed good maneuverability.

  • the target speed limit is up to 660 m / s at altitudes over 300 m and 415 m / s at altitudes of 100 - 300 m;
  • the average detection range of the MiG-17 in the 30 ° sector without target designation is 18 km (the maximum tracking range of the MiG-17 is 20 km);
  • maximum target tracking speed vertically - 40 deg / s, horizontally - 60 deg / s. The time for transferring to combat readiness from the preliminary readiness mode is 10 - 15 s.

According to the data obtained during the tests, it was proposed to use the "Yenisei" to protect the army anti-aircraft missile systems "Krug" and "Kub", since the zone of its effective firing covered the dead zone of these air defense systems.

In the Shilka, designed in parallel with the Yenisei, the 2A7 assault rifle was used, which was a modification of the 2A14 assault rifle of the ZU-23 towed installation.

We remind the reader that in 1955 - 1959, several 23-mm towed installations were tested, but only a twin ZU-14 on a two-wheel drive, developed at the KBP under the leadership of N.M. Afanasyev and P.G. Yakushev, was adopted. The ZU-14 was officially adopted by the CM decree No. 313-25 of March 22, 1960 and was named ZU-23 (GRAU index - 2A13). She entered the airborne troops of the Soviet Army, was in service with the Warsaw Pact countries and many developing countries, participated in many local wars and conflicts. However, the ZU-23 had significant drawbacks: it could not accompany tank and motorized rifle units.

niya, and the accuracy of its fire was reduced due to manual aiming and the absence of the PKK.

When creating the 2A7 machine, a casing with liquid cooling elements, a pneumatic recharging mechanism and an electric release were introduced into the 2A14 design. When firing, the barrels were cooled by running water or antifreeze along the grooves on their outer surface. After a burst of up to 50 shots (per barrel), a break of 2 - 3 s was necessary, and after 120 - 150 shots - 10 - 15 s. After 3000 shots, the barrel had to be replaced. In the ZIP, 4 spare barrels were relied on for the installation. The quadruple installation of 2A7 assault rifles was named the Amur cannon (army designation - AZP-23, GRAU index - 2A10).

In the course of state tests, 14,194 shots were fired from the Amur cannon and 7 delays were received, that is, 0.05% (according to TTT, 0.3% was allowed). The number of breakdowns is also 7, or 0.05% (according to TTT, 0.2% was started up). The power drives for aiming the gun worked quite smoothly, stably and reliably.

PKK "Tobol" as a whole also worked quite satisfactorily. The target, a MiG-17 aircraft, after receiving target designation by radiotelephone, was detected at a distance of 12.7 km with a sector search of 30 ° (according to TTT - 15 km). The range of automatic target tracking was 9 km for approach and 15 km for removal. RPK worked on targets flying at speeds up to 200 m / s, but according to the test data, a calculation was made that proved that the limit of its work in terms of target speed was 450 m / s, that is, it was III. The magnitude of the PKK sector search was regulated from 27 ° to 87 °.

During sea trials on a dry dirt road, a speed of 50.2 km / h was reached. At the same time, the fuel supply was enough for 330 km and still remained for 2 hours of operation of the gas turbine engine.

Since "Shilka" was intended to replace 14.5-mm quadruple anti-aircraft machine-gun systems ZPU-4 and 37-mm guns 61-K mod. 1939, then according to the test results, the probability of hitting a target of the "F-86 fighter" type flying at an altitude of 1000 m was calculated from these artillery systems (see table).

After the tests of the Shilka and Yenisei were completed, the State Commission reviewed the comparative characteristics of both ZSU and issued a conclusion on them:

1) "Shilka" and "Yenisei" are equipped with a radar system and provide fire day and night in any weather; 2) the weight of the Yenisei is 28 tons, which is unacceptable for arming motorized rifle subunits and airborne forces; 3) when firing at MiG-17 and Il-28 aircraft at an altitude of 200 and 500 m, the Shilka is 2 and 1.5 times more effective than the Yenisei, respectively; 4) "Yenisei" is intended for air defense of tank regiments and tank divisions for the following reasons: - tank subunits and formations operate mainly in isolation from the main group of forces. "Yenisei" provides support for tanks at all stages of the battle, provides effective fire at altitudes up to 3000 m and ranges up to 4500 m. The use of this installation practically excludes accurate bombing of tanks, which "Shilka" cannot provide; - there are quite powerful high-explosive and armor-piercing shells. "Yenisei" can conduct more effective self-defense fire at ground targets when following tank forces in battle formations; 5) unification of new ZSU with products that are in serial production: - for "Shilka" - 23-mm machine gun and shots for it are in serial production. The tracked base SU-85 is manufactured at MMZ; - for Yenisei - the PKK is unified in modules with the Krug system, in the tracked base - with SU-100P, for the production of which 2 - 3 plants are preparing.

Both in the above excerpts from the commission's conclusion, and in the rest of the documents, there is no clear justification for the priority of Shilka over the Yenisei. Even their cost was comparable.

The commission recommended that both ZSUs be adopted. But by the resolution of the CM of September 5, 1962, No. 925-401, only the Shilka was adopted, and on September 20 of the same year, the GKOT order to stop work on the Yenisei was followed. An indirect proof of the delicacy of the situation was that two days after the closure of work on the "Yenisei" there was an order from the State Committee for the Defense Industry of Ukraine on equal bonuses to organizations that worked on both machines.

The Tula Machine-Building Plant was supposed to start serial production of Amur cannons for Shilka at the beginning of 1963. However, both the cannons and the vehicle were largely incomplete. A significant design defect was the unreliable retraction of spent cartridges, which accumulated in the sleeves and jammed the machine. There were also defects in the barrel cooling system, in the vertical guidance mechanism, etc.

As a result, Shilka went into serial production only in 1964. This year it was planned to make 40 cars, but this was not done. Nevertheless, later mass production of the ZSU-23-4 was launched. At the end of the 60s, their average annual output was about 300 cars.

Description of the design of the ZSU "Shilka"

In the welded hull of the GM-575 tracked vehicle, there is a control compartment in the bow, a combat compartment in the middle and a power compartment in the stern. Between them there were partitions, which served as the front and rear supports of the tower.

The ZSU is equipped with an 8D6 diesel engine, which was given the designation V-6R by the manufacturer in the configuration for installation on the GM-575. On machines manufactured since 1969, the V-6R-1 engine was installed, which had minor design changes.

The V-6R engine is a six-cylinder, four-stroke, compressorless liquid-cooled diesel engine. Maximum power at 2000 rpm - 280 HP The working volume of the cylinders is 19.1 liters, the compression ratio is 15.0.

The GM-575 has two welded aluminum alloy fuel tanks - the front 405 liters and the rear 110 liters. The first is located in a separate compartment in the bow of the hull.

The power transmission is mechanical, with a stepped change in gear ratios, located in the stern. The main clutch is multi-plate, dry friction. The main clutch control drive is mechanical, from the pedal in the driver's seat. The transmission is mechanical, three-way, five-speed, with synchronizers in II, III, IV and V gears.

Swing mechanisms are planetary, two-stage, with locking clutches. Final drives are single-stage, with cylindrical gears.

The caterpillar propeller of the machine consists of two driving wheels, two guide wheels with a track tensioning mechanism, two track chains and twelve road wheels.

The caterpillar chain is metal, with pinned engagement, with closed hinges, of 93 steel tracks, interconnected by steel pins. Track width 382 mm, track pitch 128 mm.

The driving wheels are welded, with removable rims, rear position. Single idler wheels with metal rims. Support rollers are welded, single, with rubberized rims.

The suspension of the machine is independent, torsion bar, asymmetric, with hydraulic shock absorbers on the first front, fifth left and sixth right road wheels; spring stops on the first, third, fourth, fifth, sixth left road wheels and the first, third, fourth and sixth right road wheels.

The tower is a welded structure with a shoulder strap diameter of 1840 mm. With its front frontal plates, it is fixed on the frame, on the left and right walls of which the upper and lower cradles of the gun are attached. When the swinging part of the gun is given an elevation angle, the embrasure of the frame is partially covered by a movable flap, the roller of which slides along the guide of the lower cradle.

There are three hatches on the right side plate: one, with a bolted cover, is used for mounting the tower equipment, the other two are closed with a visor and are air inlets for the ventilation of the units and the blower of the PAZ system. On the left side of the tower, a casing is welded on the outside, designed to remove steam from the cooling system of the gun barrels. In the rear of the tower there are two hatches for servicing the equipment.

The turret is equipped with a 23-mm quadruple cannon AZP-23 "Amur". Together with the turret, it was assigned the 2A10 index, the machine guns - 2A7, and the power drives - 2E2. The action of the automatic gun is based on the removal of powder gases through a side hole in the wall of the barrel. The barrel consists of a pipe, cooling system shrouds, a gas chamber and a flame arrester. The shutter is wedge-shaped, with the wedge dropping down. The length of the assault rifle with a flame arrester is 2610 mm, the length of the barrel with a flame arrester is 2050 mm (without a flame arrester - 1880 mm). The length of the threaded part is 1730 mm. The weight of one machine gun is 85 kg, the weight of the entire artillery unit is 4964 kg.

The supply of cartridges is lateral, the delivery is direct, directly from the link with a skewed cartridge. The right-hand automatic machines have the right feed of the tape, the left-hand ones - the left. The tape is fed into the receiving windows of the machines from the cartridge box. For this, the energy of the powder gases, which drive the feed mechanism through the bolt carrier, is used, and partly the recoil energy of the machines. The gun is equipped with two boxes of 1000 cartridges each (of which the upper machine has 480, and the lower one - 520 cartridges) and a pneumatic reloading system for cocking moving parts of machine guns in preparation for firing and reloading in case of misfires.

Each cradle is equipped with two automatic machines. Two cradles (upper and lower) are mounted on the bed, one above the other at a distance of 320 mm from each other in a horizontal position, the lower one is extended forward in relation to the upper one by 320 mm. The parallelism of the trunks is ensured by a parallelogram thrust connecting both cradles. Two toothed sectors are attached to the bottom, which mesh with the gears of the input shaft of the vertical guidance reducer. Cannon "Cupid" is placed on the base, set on a ball shoulder strap. The base consists of an upper and a lower box. An armored turret is attached to the end of the upper box. Inside the base there are two longitudinal beams that support the bed. In the bearings of the bed and swing on the trunnions, both cradles with automatic machines fixed to them.

The gun ammunition includes 23-mm BZT and OFZT shells. Armor-piercing shells BZT weighing 190 g do not have a fuse and explosive, but contain only an incendiary substance for tracing. The OFZT fragmentation shells weighing 188.5 g have an MG-25 head fuse. The propellant charge for both shells is the same - 77 g of gunpowder brand 5/7 CFL. Cartridge weight 450 g. Steel sleeve, single use. The ballistic data of both shells are the same - an initial speed of 980 m / s, a table ceiling of 1500 m, a table range of 2000 m. The OFZT shells are equipped with self-liquidators with an action time of 5-11 s. The power supply of the machines is tape, for 50 rounds. Four OFZT cartridges alternate in the tape - one cartridge BZT, etc.

Guidance and stabilization of the AZP-23 cannon is performed by 2E2 power guidance drives. In the 2E2 system, URS (Jenny's coupling) was used: for horizontal guidance - URS No. 5, and for vertical guidance - URS No. 2.5. Both are powered by a common 6 kW DSO-20 electric motor.

Depending on the external conditions and the state of the equipment, anti-aircraft targets are fired in the following modes.

The first (main) is the auto-tracking mode, the angular coordinates and range are determined by the radar, which automatically follows the target along them, issuing data to the calculating device (analog computer) for generating anticipated coordinates. The opening of fire is made on the signal "There is data" on the calculating device. The RPK automatically generates full guidance angles, taking into account the pitching and yawing of the ZSU, and issues them to the guidance drives, and the latter automatically aim the gun at the lead-in point. Shooting is carried out by the commander or search operator - the gunner.

The second mode - the angular coordinates come from the sighting device, and the range - from the radar.

The angular current coordinates of the target enter the calculating device from the sighting device, which is guided by the search operator - the gunner - semi-automatically, and the range values ​​come from the radar. Thus, the radar operates in the radio rangefinder mode. This mode is auxiliary and is used in the presence of interference that causes malfunctions in the operation of the antenna pointing system along the angular coordinates, or, in case of a malfunction in the auto-tracking channel, along the angular coordinates of the radar. The rest of the complex operates in the same way as in the auto-tracking mode.

The third mode - the anticipated coordinates are generated according to the "memorized" values ​​of the current coordinates X, Y, H and the components of the target's velocity Vx, V and Vh, based on the hypothesis of uniform rectilinear movement of the target in any plane. The mode is used when there is a threat of loss of a radar target during automatic tracking due to interference or malfunctions.

The fourth mode is shooting with a double sight, aiming is carried out in a semi-automatic mode. The lead is introduced by the search operator - the gunner on the sight rings of the backup sight. This mode is used when the radar, calculating device and stabilization systems fail.

The radar-instrument complex is designed to control the fire of the AZP-23 cannon and is located in the instrument compartment of the tower. It includes: a radar station, a calculating device, blocks and elements of systems for stabilizing the line of sight and the line of fire, a sighting device. The radar station is designed to detect low-flying high-speed targets and accurately determine the coordinates of the selected target, which can be performed in two modes: a) angular coordinates and range are automatically tracked; b) the angular coordinates come from the sighting device, and the range - from the radar.

The radar operates in the range of 1 - 1.5 cm waves. The range was chosen for a number of reasons. Such stations have antennas with low weight and size characteristics. Radars in the wavelength range of 1-1.5 cm are less susceptible to deliberate interference from the enemy, since the ability to operate in a wide frequency band makes it possible, by using broadband frequency modulation and signal coding, to increase noise immunity and the processing speed of received information. By increasing the Doppler shifts in the frequency of reflected signals arising from moving and maneuvering targets, their recognition and classification is ensured. In addition, this range is less loaded with other radio equipment. Looking ahead, let's say that radars operating in this range make it possible to detect air targets developed using stealth technology. By the way, according to the foreign press, during Operation Desert Storm, the Iraqi Shilka shot down an American F-117A aircraft built using this technology.

The disadvantage of the radar is a relatively short range, usually not exceeding 10 - 20 km and depending on the state of the atmosphere, primarily on the intensity of precipitation - rain or sleet. To protect against passive interference in the Shilki radar, a coherent-pulse method of target selection is used. Simply put, constant signals from terrain objects and passive interference are not taken into account, and signals from moving targets are sent to the PKK. The radar is controlled by the search operator and the range operator.

The power supply system is designed to supply all consumers of the ZSU-23-4 with 55 V and 27.5 V direct current and 220 V alternating current, 400 Hz.

The main elements of the power supply system include:

  • gas turbine engine of the power supply system, type DG4M-1, designed to rotate a DC generator;
  • a set of a PGS2-14A DC generator with equipment designed to supply DC consumers with a stabilized voltage of 55 V and 27.5 V;
  • set of the BP-III converter block with the BK-III contactor block, intended for converting direct current into alternating three-phase current;
  • four storage batteries 12-ST-70M, designed to compensate for peak overloads of the DC generator, to power the starters of the DG4M-1 engine and the V-6R engine of the machine, as well as to power the devices and electrical consumers when the generator is not running.

The DG4M-1 gas turbine engine, the power supply system reducer and the PGS2-14A generator are connected to each other into a single power unit, which is installed in the power compartment of the machine in the right rear niche and is rigidly fixed at four points. Rated power of the DG4M-1 engine is 70 h.p. at 6000 rpm. Specific fuel consumption up to 1050 g / h.p. in hour. The maximum starting time of the DG4M-1 engine with the acceptance of the rated load, including cold cranking, is 2 minutes. Dry weight of the DG4M-1 engine is 130 kg.

The ZSU-23-4 is equipped with a short-wave frequency-modulated radio transceiver radio station R-123. The radius of its action on medium-rugged terrain with the noise suppressor turned off and no interference is up to 23 km, and with the noise suppressor turned on - up to 13 km.

The tank intercom R-124 for 4 subscribers is used for intercom.

ZSU-23-4 is equipped with TNA-2 navigation equipment. Its arithmetic mean error in developing coordinates as a percentage of the distance traveled is no more than 1%. When the ZSU moves, the duration of the equipment operation without reorientation is 3 - 3.5 hours.

The crew is protected from radioactive dust by purifying the air and creating overpressure in the fighting compartment and control compartment. For this, a central blower with inertial air separation is used.

Operation, modernization and combat use of "Shilka"

ZSU-23-4 "Shilka" began to enter the troops in 1965 and by the beginning of the 70s completely replaced the ZSU-57-2. Initially, the state-owned tank regiment had a “shilok” division, which consisted of two batteries of four vehicles each. In the late 60s, it often happened that in a division one battery had a ZSU-23-4 and one battery - a ZSU-57-2. Later, motorized rifle and tank regiments received a typical anti-aircraft battery, consisting of two platoons. One platoon had four Shilka air defense systems, and the other had four Strela-1 self-propelled air defense systems (then Strela-10 air defense systems).

Operation of the Shilka showed that the RPK-2 works well in the presence of passive interference. There was practically no active interference with the Shilka during our exercises, since there were no radio countermeasures at its operating frequencies, at least in the 70s. Significant shortcomings of the PKK were also revealed, which often needed reconfiguration. Instability of the electrical parameters of the circuits was noted. The PKK could take a target for auto-tracking no closer than 7 - 8 km from the ZSU. At shorter distances, this was difficult to do due to the high angular velocity of the target. When switching from detection mode to auto-tracking mode, the target was sometimes lost.

Gas turbine engines DG4M-1 constantly junked, and the generator of the on-board network worked mainly from the main engine. In turn, the systematic operation of the diesel engine in the parking lot at low revs led to its tarring.

In the second half of the 60s, the ZSU-23-4 underwent two minor upgrades, the main purpose of which was to increase the reliability of various components and assemblies, primarily the RPK. The machines of the first modernization received the ZSU-23-4V index, and the second - ZSU-23-4V1. The main tactical and technical characteristics of self-propelled guns remained unchanged.

In October 1967, the Council of Ministers issued a decree on a more serious modernization of Shilka. Its most important part was the alteration of the 2A7 assault rifles and the 2A10 cannon in order to increase the reliability and stability of the complex operation, increase the survivability of the gun parts and reduce the time for maintenance. In the process of modernizing the pneumatic line of the 2A7 automatic machines, it was replaced by a pyrocharger, which made it possible to exclude an unreliable compressor and a number of other units from the design. The welded pipe for the coolant outlet was replaced with a flexible pipe - this increased the barrel life from 3500 to 4500 rounds. In 1973, the modernized ZSU-23-4M was put into service along with the 2A7M assault rifle and the 2A10M cannon. ZSU-23-4M received the designation "Biryusa", but in the army it was still called "Shilka".

After the next modernization, the installation received the index ZSU-23-4MZ (3 - interrogator). It is for the first time equipped with equipment for identifying "friend or foe". Later, during the repair, all ZSU-23-4M were brought up to the level of ZSU-23-4MZ. The production of the ZSU-23-4MZ was stopped in 1982.

Shilki were widely exported to the Warsaw Pact countries, the Middle East and other regions. They took an active part in the Arab-Israeli wars, the Iraqi-Iranian war (on both sides), as well as in the 1991 Gulf War.

There are different points of view about the effectiveness of the "Shilka" in the fight against air targets. So, during the 1973 war, the "shilki" accounted for about 10% of all Israeli aircraft losses (the rest were distributed between the air defense missile systems and fighter aircraft). However, the pilots taken prisoner showed that the "shilki" literally created a sea of ​​fire and the pilots instinctively left the zone of fire of the ZSU and fell into the zone of action of the air defense system. During Operation Desert Storm, the pilots of the multinational forces tried unnecessarily not to operate at altitudes below 1,300 m, fearing Shilok fire.

"Shilki" were highly valued in Afghanistan by our officers and soldiers. There is a convoy along the road, and suddenly there is fire from an ambush, try to organize a defense, all the cars have already been shot. There is only one salvation - "Shil-ka". A long burst at the enemy, and a sea of ​​fire in his position. Dushmans called our self-propelled gun "shaitan-arba". They determined the beginning of its work immediately and immediately began to withdraw. Shilka saved lives for thousands of Soviet soldiers.

In Afghanistan, this ZSU fully realized the ability to fire at ground targets in the mountains. Moreover, a special "Afghan version" appeared - as unnecessary, the radio device complex was dismantled on it, due to which it was possible to increase the ammunition load from 2000 to 4000 shots. A night sight was also installed.

An interesting touch. The columns, accompanied by the Shilka, were rarely attacked not only in the mountains, but also near settlements. The ZSU was dangerous for the manpower hidden behind the mud blowers - the detonator of the projectile was triggered when it hit the wall. Effectively "Shilka" also hit lightly armored targets - armored personnel carriers, vehicles ...

Adopting the "Shil-ku", both the military and the representatives of the military-industrial complex understood that the 23-mm cannon "Amur" was too weak. This applied to the small slant firing range, and to the ceiling, and to the weakness of the high-explosive action of the projectile. The Americans added fuel to the fire by advertising the new A-10 attack aircraft, which was supposedly invulnerable to 23-mm Shilka shells. As a result, almost the next day after the adoption of the ZSU-23-4, all high authorities began talking about its modernization in terms of increasing firepower and, first of all, increasing the effective shooting ceiling and the destructive action of the projectile.

Since the fall of 1962, several draft designs for the installation of 30-mm assault rifles on the Shilka have been worked out. Among them were considered a 30-mm machine gun of the revolving type NN-30 designed by OKB-16, used in the ship's installation AK-230, a 30-mm six-barreled machine gun AO-18 from naval installations AK-630 and a 30-mm double-barreled machine gun AO-17 designed by KBP ... In addition, a 57-mm double-barreled machine gun AO-16, specially designed in the KBP for an anti-aircraft self-propelled installation, was tested.

On March 26, 1963, a technical council was held in Mytishchi near Moscow under the leadership of N.A. Astrov. It was decided to increase the caliber of the ZSU from 23 to 30 mm. This doubled (from 1000 to 2000 m) increased the area of ​​50% target hitting probability and increased the firing range from 2500 to 4000 m.Effectiveness of firing at a MiG-17 fighter flying at an altitude of 1000 m at a speed of 200 - 250 m / s , increased by 1.5 times.

When comparing 30-mm assault rifles, it was indicated that the extraction of the sleeves from the NN-30 goes back down, and the removal of the sleeves from the Shilka tower - forward sideways, which would require significant alterations in the SPAAG. When comparing AO-17 and AO-18, which had the same ballistics, the advantage of the first was noted, which required less modifications of individual units, provided easier operating conditions for the drives, preserving to a greater extent the continuity of the design, including the turret ring, horizontal gearbox, guidance , hydraulic drive, etc.

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  • Soviet anti-aircraft self-propelled gun "Shilka" (7419),. ZSU 23-4 "Shilka" was adopted by the Soviet army in 1965. At that time, it was an advanced machine: radar search for the enemy, rate of fire and destructive power forced ...