Russian super heavy 240mm mortars 2S4 Tyulpan (Tulip) will fight in a network-centric war and exchange data with drones. They will be upgraded to destroy the most complicated targets by precision smart munitions. Experts believe the upgraded 2S4 will radically enhance artillery effectiveness, the Izvestia writes.



Russian army 2S4 Tyulpan240mm self-propelled mortar on tracked armoured vehicle at Army-2017, International Military Technical Forum near Moscow, Russia. (Picture source Army Recognition)

The Defense Ministry said complex modernization and restoration maintenance with extended life cycle includes barrel and recoil mechanism replacement. The main changes are related to communication systems, positioning and fire control. Their electronics will be changed. The biggest-caliber mortars will be included into a single tactical command level created to engage in network-centric warfare. The command level is designed for complex control of the troops and the use of navigational systems, as well as satellite and unmanned monitoring facilities. The Uralvagonzavod Corporation (UVZ) confirmed the plans to upgrade 2S4 but refused to elaborate the details of the project.

The mortar became operational in 1971. In 18 years the Ural Transport Machine-Building Plant produced 588 such weapons.

The Tulip can destroy practically all concrete shelters and defense fortifications. The artillery system is designed to destroy fortified buildings and erections, troops and armor accumulations, as well as targets invulnerable for other artillery guns.

The set of 2S4 projectiles includes Smelchak precision smart mines. They are targeted by a laser beam. The probability of hitting a circle with a diameter of 2-3 meters comprises 80-90 percent. The firing range is 20 km. and the set of projectiles comprises 10-20 mines. Tulip combat weight is over 27 tons. The mortar can fire shells weighing from 130 to 230 kg at a rate of one shot a minute.



Russian army 2S4 Tyulpan240mm self-propelled mortar on tracked armoured vehicle in firing position at Army-2017, International Military Technical Forum near Moscow, Russia.

Expert Alexey Khlopotov said 2S4 upgrade was determined by the major trends in the armed struggle. "The mortar design is well invented and thoroughly upgraded according to the operational experience, including in Afghanistan. There is actually nothing to add or withdraw. However, it is imperative to modernize communications, targeting and coordinates obtaining systems. It is a vital necessity and the demand of the time," he said.

"Timely reception of commands, rapid advancement to positions, precise targeting and destruction of the target by the first shot are very important tasks," Khlopotov said.

It is necessary to connect 2S4 with outside targeting sources, including drones. "That will radically increase the effectiveness of artillery systems. It is what a modern army needs," he said.

The Tulips fought in Afghanistan where the self-propelled Soviet mortars destroyed fortified adversary positions also on the back mountain slopes, rock roadblocks and caves. The powerful weapons were engaged to fight terrorists during the second Chechen war. In several days 2S4 destroyed their defense system in the mountains. At present there are close to 400 Tulips in ammunition dumps, the Izvestia writes.