Lotos set to begin next trial phase but obstacles lie ahead
The SPG features several advanced capabilities yet there may be delays before it fulfils its promise
The 2S42 Lotos self-propelled gun (SPG) from Russian state-run manufacturer TsNIITochMash has completed acceptance trials and the system is on track to begin preliminary trials in 2021, according to parent company Rostec.
Lotos is based on a modified BMD-4M chassis which shares a high level of commonality with vehicles that are widely used by the Russian Airborne Forces (VDV).
However, there may still be more obstacles before this SPG reaches serial production and enters full operational service.
For one thing, Lotos will have to pass Russian Army trials and if successful, industry would require time to prepare for serial production.
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)]()
SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)
At SOF Week 2026, Pro-Shot Defense discusses the maintenance technologies and weapon support tools designed to keep special operations forces mission ready in the world’s harshest environments.
-
![Sweden looks to commercial world to meet military UGV needs]()
Sweden looks to commercial world to meet military UGV needs
Stockholm is exploring commercial avenues to provide a small uncrewed ground vehicle capable of carrying 500kg with a focus on challenging terrains and C2 systems.
-
![Are counter-drone systems for dismounted troops emerging as the next procurement battle?]()
Are counter-drone systems for dismounted troops emerging as the next procurement battle?
As uncrewed aerial systems and loitering munitions evolve, it is increasingly necessary for counter-uncrewed solutions to keep pace in order to protect not only military facilities and platforms but also dismounted troops.
-
![Patria TRACKX - The ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle]()
Patria TRACKX - The ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle
Patria TRACKX, the ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle, is designed to conquer the most challenging environments with ease.
-
![NATO’s Crystal Arrow factors in Ukrainian UGV lessons as European interest grows]()
NATO’s Crystal Arrow factors in Ukrainian UGV lessons as European interest grows
One goal of NATO’s Exercise Crystal Arrow was to identify the potential uses of uncrewed ground vehicles – as seen on the Ukrainian battlefield – and put platforms into the hands of users.
-
![SOF Week 2026: Galvion unveils Cortex Evo integrated combat helmet]()
SOF Week 2026: Galvion unveils Cortex Evo integrated combat helmet
Galvion has introduced its Cortex Evo integrated head system, combining ballistic protection, power, data and processing capabilities within a single combat helmet architecture.
