This footage, provided by Ukraine's 3rd Border Detachment, shows them using a truck-mounted anti-aircraft cannon to fire on Russian positions and equipment near Luhansk. The video is dated March 2024.

The auto-cannon in question is a Zu-23-2, a dual-barreled anti-aircraft gun of Soviet origin, which fires 23-millimeter rounds. As the squad leader says, it can make mincemeat of soft targets. While it was initially designed to be towed, the Zu-23-2 was eventually married to a dedicated carrier, and from there it was only a matter of time until someone bolted one to a pickup. It's important to note that the Border Guards shown here fire the cannon in short bursts down the long axis of the back of the truck. Militants in Syria, using a similar technical setup, have demonstrated that firing the weapon system broadside in too light a truck can cause it to flip.

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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