Russians Developed Automated ZU-23-2 to Counter Ukrainian Drones

Russia has tested an automated air-defense system built around the ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun, the Telegram channel Vodohray reported.

The system, besides a modernized ZU-23-2, includes 6P49 Kord twin machine guns.

The tests took place at the Kapustin Yar training range.

Published images suggest the installation is configured as a fixed tower: the standard wheeled carriage appears to have been removed.

Such modules are likely transported and mounted on trucks.

A radar unit is fitted to the towers to detect and track aerial targets; another radar-like installation nearby may be a dome-mounted electronic-warfare system.

It appears the installations are integrated into a single automated system that detects and tracks targets and then assigns them to individual fire modules.

The system was probably developed to bolster local air defenses and protect key sites and drone corridors on Russian territory, areas that are difficult to secure with existing systems because of the country’s vast size.

On September 16, it was reported that Russia formed the first Bars-Sarmat flight detachment using light aircraft to intercept Ukrainian long-range drones deep in the rear.

The Special Operations Center has deployed a unit of six interceptors, acquired or donated by private donors. The unit is expected to expand, with negotiations underway to procure several more aircraft.