The 2S40 Phlox is a newly-developed Russian wheeled self-propelled artillery system.
Since the outbreak of the Ukraine-Russia War, Russia has gradually introduced new weapons, after the T-14 Armata main battle tank, new generation self-propelled artillery and mortars were also introduced. to the battlefield to test fire. According to information on Russian social networks, the first 120 mm Phlox or 2S40 self-propelled Mortar systems have been mass-produced. The new weapons systems will soon be delivered to the Russian army, and will be deployed quickly on the Ukrainian battlefield.
The Ukrainian battlefield provides an unparalleled opportunity to gauge equipment performance, far beyond what controlled environments or simulations can offer. The 2S40 Phlox is a newly-developed Russian wheeled self-propelled artillery system. It’s built on a truck chassis and is equipped with a 120mm mortar. Designed to operate close to the frontline, this artillery system features an armored crew cab that provides protection against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters.
The Floks is being offered to the Russian Army as a replacement of towed artillery systems of similar caliber. It was first publicly revealed in 2016. The truck-mounted artillery system combines features of mortar and howitzer. It can deliver direct and indirect fire. Russia is among the few countries that operate such unique artillery systems.
The 2S40 Phlox has the capability to fire a diverse range of ammunition, including High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT), High-Explosive Fragmentation (HE-FRAG), and smoke. Its maximum firing range with these types of ammunition reaches up to 13 km. Additionally, it can launch any 120mm mortar shells, boasting a maximum range of 7.5 km. For precision strikes against armored targets, the Phlox employs the Kitolov-2M precision-guided munitions with a range extending up to 10 km. The vehicle carries a total of 80 rounds, with 28 of them ready to use.
Maximum rate of fire is up to 8 rounds per minute when firing HE-FRAG rounds and up to 10 rounds per minute, when firing mines. Vehicle is fitted with a remotely-controlled weapon station, armed with a 12.7 mm machine gun. It is used for self-defense. Also there are firing ports provided for the crew to fire their individual weapons.
Equipped with a state-of-the-art fire control system, the 2S40 offers a high degree of accuracy. It can share firing data with an associated command post vehicle and also has the capability to select targets and operate autonomously. Operated by a four-man crew, the Phlox can be prepared for firing in just a few minutes. Furthermore, it can swiftly redeploy to evade counter-battery fire.
The new Russian Floks mortar system is equipped with a YaMZ-652 turbocharged diesel engine, with 440 horsepowe, coupled with a manual transmission, and is fitted with a central tyre inflation system. This vehicle has good cross-country mobility over difficult terrain, such as as sand, snow and mud. With preparation vehicle can ford water obstacles up to 1.75 m deep. Top speed is 85 km/h and range is 1,000 km.
