Russia unveils experimental ZAK-23E self-propelled anti-aircraft gun for counter-UAS role
The ZAK-23E is based on the BTR-82A and an unmanned combat module with two 23mm 2A7M autocannons. (Photo: Alex Orlov)
Russia’s JSC Tulamashzavod and JSC Research Center Elins presented a new ZAK-23E self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) at the Army-2023 event near Moscow in mid-August. It is an experimental vehicle that is designed to combine robust and mass-produced components and is capable of firing programmable airburst rounds.
The ZAK-23E was initially unveiled at a closed event in 2022 and made its first public appearance during the 'Engineers of the Future 2023' industrial forum on June 26, 2023, near Tula. According to representatives from Tulamashzavod, the vehicle is currently in the early stages of development.
The system consists of a remote weapon station with two 23mm 2A7M autocannons mounted on a BTR-82A 8x8 armoured vehicle. The targeting system includes a meteorological sensor, a target acquisition radar and a panoramic electro-optic senor developed by JSC Elins. Allegedly, the combat module could also be fitted on other wheeled and tracked chassis.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Saudi Arabia’s record defence spend highlights uncertain times]()
World Defense Show 2026: Saudi Arabia’s record defence spend highlights uncertain times
Saudi Arabia’s investment in its land forces, notably in the area of air defence as recently as 30 January, is a sign of the challenges the Gulf State faces, particularly the threat from Houthi rebels in Yemen.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: ST Engineering’s Terrex s5 highlights hybrid power’s role in future warfare]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: ST Engineering’s Terrex s5 highlights hybrid power’s role in future warfare
Hybrid-electric drive technology may address the growing energy demands of land warfare in future.
-
![CAVS rides a wave and prepares for surge requirements as orders roll in]()
CAVS rides a wave and prepares for surge requirements as orders roll in
The Common Armoured Vehicle System is continuing to rack up orders as the British Army looks likely to become an operator of the vehicle, while Italy and Ireland are also contenders.
-
![Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal]()
Norway opts for Hanwha’s Chunmoo for long-range fires under $2 billion deal
The selection of Hanwha’s K239 Chunmoo long-range precision fires system, with a contract expected to be signed on 30 January, makes Norway the second European country to choose the system. It is expected an operational system will be in service within four years.
-
![Land forces review: Tanks, trucks and IFVs dominate but woes remain for Ajax]()
Land forces review: Tanks, trucks and IFVs dominate but woes remain for Ajax
This year has begun with main battle tanks taking the lead while orders for large logistics and support vehicles continued from last year. Additionally, two of the British Army’s most significant contracted vehicle programmes, Ajax reconnaissance vehicle and Challenger 3 tank, continued to make news in January.
