Strike on Russian 2S43 Malva Self-Propelled Artillery System
Operators from the 151st Separate Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine located and struck a Russian 2S43 Malva wheeled self-propelled artillery system. The operation, carried out using drone operators, highlights the growing effectiveness of unmanned technologies in combat.
The target—the wheeled 2S43 Malva—is a relatively new addition to Russia’s military arsenal. According to the 151st Brigade, the Malva represents Moscow’s first attempt to create a homegrown equivalent to Western artillery platforms like the CAESAR or Archer.
“This is a very rare beast in our area. The first batch was only delivered to Russian forces at the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024.” — Representatives of the 151st Brigade
More details on the Malva system: total production so far is estimated at between 20 and 40 units. It has a firing range of up to 24 km, making it a threat to Ukrainian rear areas. To date, only three of these artillery systems have been reported as destroyed or damaged. Each unit is valued at approximately $3.5 to $5 million USD.
Ukrainian Forces Score Additional Hits
On April 25, personnel from the Unmanned Systems Forces also struck Russian Su-57 and Su-34 aircraft. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed the attacks, which targeted planes at the Shagol airbase in Russia’s Chelyabinsk region—about 1,700 km from the Ukrainian border.
In a separate operation, the Unmanned Systems Forces, together with the Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), conducted a special mission in occupied Crimea. That operation resulted in the loss of a Russian drone base, a transport aircraft, and a radar system.
The destruction of the 2S43 Malva underscores the critical role and efficiency of modern drone technology in military operations. This event also carries strategic weight, as new artillery systems entering Russian service could significantly alter the dynamics on the battlefield. Successful strikes against Russian aircraft and infrastructure demonstrate Ukraine’s ability to conduct effective long-range countermeasures, potentially shifting the regional balance of power.
The recent destruction of the 2S43 Malva highlights the increasing precision of Ukraine's military operations. In a similar vein, Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted Russian installations in a coordinated attack, showcasing the effectiveness of drone technology in modern warfare. For insights into another significant strike on Russian bases and aircraft, see how Ukraine continues to leverage its unmanned capabilities in this ongoing conflict. Learn more about the recent strikes on Russian assets.