2S31 Vena

Summary

The 2S31 Vena (Russian: "2С31 Вена") is a Russian amphibious self-propelled 120 mm mortar system. "2S31" is its GRAU designation.

2S31 Vena
TypeSelf-propelled mortar
Place of originRussia
Service history
In service2014–present
Production history
DesignerMotovilikha Plants
Designed1980–2007
ManufacturerMotovilikha Plants
Produced1996
Specifications
Mass19.1 t (18.8 long tons; 21.1 short tons)
Length7 m (23 ft)
Width3 m (9.8 ft)
Height3 m (9.8 ft)
Crew4

Elevation-4° to +80°
Traverse360°
Rate of fire8-10 rounds per minute
Maximum firing range7.2–13 km (4.5–8.1 mi)

Main
armament
2A80 120 mm mortar
Secondary
armament
7.62 mm PKTM machine gun
EngineDiesel UTD-29
340 kW (460 hp)
Power/weight19.4 kW (26.0 hp) per ton
SuspensionIndividual torsion bar
Operational
range
600 km (370 mi)
Maximum speed 70 km/h (43 mph)

Description edit

The 2S31 consists of a 120mm 2A80 rifled gun-mortar mounted on the chassis of the BMP-3 infantry combat vehicle.[1] It was developed by Joint Stock Venture "Plants of Motovilikha" (Russian: ОАО "Мотовилихинские заводы"). The 2S31's turret is equipped with digital automated fire control system, navigation system, and optical/electronic reconnaissance and target acquisition system. Its 2A80 gun-mortar is capable of launching a high-explosive mortar projectile with a maximum range of 18,000 m (20,000 yd).[1] The vehicle is protected by a welded aluminium hull to protect against small arms fire and shrapnel.[2] It can also fire armour-piercing projectiles that can penetrate up to 650 mm (26 in) of steel plate at ranges of up to 1 km (0.62 mi). A separate sighting system is used when engaging in direct fire mode.[3]

Service history edit

Reportedly first combat use of Vena was during Second Nagorno-Karabakh War.[4]

In September 2023 Vena appeared in Vesti program during the report about Russian troops fighting near Bakhmut, confirming its use during Russian invasion of Ukraine.[5]

Current operators edit

See also edit

References edit

  1. ^ a b c d Foss, Christopher (10 May 2016). "SOFEX 2016 - Russia shows firepower [SOFEX16D1]". London: Jane's Information Group. Archived from the original on 22 December 2016. Retrieved 29 September 2016.
  2. ^ 2S31 Vena Self-propelled mortar carrier armoured vehicle, Army Recognition, retrieved 16/02/2021
  3. ^ 2S31 Vena Self-Propelled Gun, Global Security.org, retrieved 16/02/2021
  4. ^ "Одна из лучших легких САУ в мире - 2С31 прошла боевую проверку в Карабахе". vestnik-rm.ru. Retrieved 1 November 2023.
  5. ^ "Новая российская автоматизированная самоходка 2С31 "Вена" замечена в зоне СВО". Российская газета (in Russian). 15 September 2023. Retrieved 1 November 2023.
  6. ^ "List Of Russian Army Equipment Not Yet Destroyed In Ukraine".

External links edit

  • 2S31 Vena Technical Data Sheet - specifications - pictures - video
  • Description at the website of its manufacturer
  • 2S31 Offered to Venezuela