A second noteworthy fire-support trend coming from the Russo-Ukrainian War is the emphasis on both sides of direct fire atillery. The Cold War era design of the 2S1 Gvozdika (Carnation), Self-propelled 122 mm has been extremely successful and popular on both sides. Even though “an old system” its high maneuverability (particularly in soft soil and marshy areas) and mechanical reliability make it popular in roles for which it was not designed. For the Russian side, the 2S1 is used in the dual role of both indirect Howitzer and as an assault gun. In this latter direct fire role it is used as an over-watch system targeting at a range of 1 to 6 km Ukrainian strong points and suppressing anti-tank defenses. In interviews with the author, numerous Ukrainian anti-tank missiles and anti-tank gun operators have noted their reticence in opening fire against Russian armor because of the expectation that they themselves will immediately be targeted by the Gvozdika. Conversely, the Ukrainians have been using their 2S1 systems less as an assault gun but rather in the anti-tank role — to compensate for their lack of effective antitank weapons against Russian armor. Although the 122 shell is not designed for armor penetration, the force of the impact of the shell when fired at a reasonably close range can have a disastrous effects even without penetrating the armor, such as knocking the turret off the tank. However, there is a negative consequence in using a light-skinned armored vehicle in direct fire engagements that results in very high loss rates for Gvozdika. Interestingly, there is no comparable system to the 2S1 in the American or West European armies. However, there are large stocks of Gvozdika inherited by former Warsaw Pact countries. For example, Poland has an inventory of 2S1T Goździk of these systems —most in storage— but they could play a critical role in Baltic defenses, where their amphibious and dual direct/indirect capability would make a noteworthy contribution.
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