Drone video released by Ukrainian sources shows two Msta-S self-propelled artillery pieces becoming the target of a HIMARS strike in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine.

The Msta-S, also known as the 2S19, is (see was in this case) a formidable self-propelled howitzer used by the Russian military. Developed in the late 1980s, this artillery system plays a vital role in providing effective fire support to Russian ground troops throughout Ukraine. The Msta-S combines mobility and versatility on the battlefield by mounting the cannon to a tracked chassis giving it the ability to easily maneuver itself into defensible and concealed positions. Why that wasn't done here, the world will never know. My money is on it being Vodka o' Clock.

At its core is a 152mm gun that enables a wide range of ammunition types to be employed, including high-explosive, fragmentation, and guided projectiles. With a range of approximately 24 kilometers (which is only 276 kilometers less than the HIMARS), and the potential for extended reach using rocket-assisted projectiles, the Msta-S can strike targets with precision and destructive force. It can also stand out like a sore thumb in a tree line and be spotted by $900 DJI drones while being easily destroyed by superior HIMARS strikes.

Equipped with advanced fire control systems, such as a ballistic computer running MS-DOS on the equivalent of a Ti-82, laser range finder, and digital communications, the Msta-S ensures mostly accurate targeting and efficient coordination with other units. Its crew of what was probably three to five personnel prior to this strike handle operations and ammunition for each gun.

The Msta-S was supposed exemplify Russia's commitment to enhancing their artillery capabilities, strengthening their ground forces, and maintaining a formidable presence on the modern battlefield. From this footage, and a host of other footage that you can find on the webpage, we've found that they're not nearly as effective at avoiding destruction as they are at handing it out wholesale to Ukrainian cities when left entirely uncontested.

About the Author

Josh Brooks

Josh is an American writer and former USMC machine gunner with eight years of experience in ground combat arms throughout the GWOT. He is currently based in Texas and specializes in combat footage analysis and digital marketing.Follow Josh at OfficialJoshBrooks.com