This footage, provided by the Ukrainian military, shows a S21 “Gvozdika” 122-millimeter self-propelled cannon and its crew relocating, setting up, and firing on Russian infantry and positions. This footage is juxtaposed with spotter drone footage of the hits, including casualties. Viewer discretion is advised.

This footage suggests that Ukraine’s self-propelled artillery doctrine was written by DMX in the late 1990s and consists of three phases- (1) stop, (2) drop, (3)shut ‘em down, open up shop.

(1) Stop: The crew is shown riding in and on top of the Gvozdika as it moves to its next firing location (a practice that has routinely proven to be a spectacularly bad decision for Russians, but I digress). A spotter drone finds Russian infantry and the buildings they’re occupying (here, sped up).

(2) Drop: Right at 0:30, we see the crew launch a 122-millimeter shell downrange.

(3) Shut ‘em Down, etc.: At 0:48 seconds, the building the Russians use for cover largely ceases to be. The Gvozdika crew then reverts to Phase One.

 

About the Author

 

       

     

Cole Simms

     

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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