ZSU-23-4 Shilka

   Development of the ZSU-23-4 Shilka began in 1957. The first prototype was completed in 1960. After extensive trials it entered service with the Soviet Army in 1962. Production of the ZSU-23-4 commenced in 1964. It was a very successful design. The Shilka is currently in service with a number of countries worldwide.

   The ZSU-23-4 Shilka is armed with quad 23-mm guns. It is a modified variant of the towed ZU-23 anti-aircraft gun. Vehicle has a rate of fire of 3 400 rounds per minute. It fires the same rounds as the ZU-23.

   The Shilka is fitted with target surveillance and tracking radar and simple fire control system. It's radar has a tracking range of 6 - 10 km, depending on target's altitude.

   The ZSU-23-4 was involved in a number of military conflicts. It appeared that vehicle is extremely effective against ground targets

   Thin armor of the ZSU-23-4 provides protection only against small arms fire and artillery shell splinters. It is fitted with NBC protection system.

   Vehicle has a crew of four, including commander, gunner, radar operator and driver.

   The Shilka has a tracked chassis and uses many automotive components of the SU-85 self-propelled artillery system. Vehicle is powered by the V-6P1 diesel engine, developing 280 hp. Until 1970 it was fitted with the V-6P diesel. The ZSU-23-4 is also fitted with auxiliary power unit.

Variants

   ZSU-23-4V, improved variant developed in 1969;

   ZSU-23-4V1, improved variant with new fire control system, developed in 1971;

   ZSU-23-4M1, has improved radar, developed in 1972;

   ZSU-23-4M2, was optimized for firing against ground targets during Afghanistan war. It has no radar and carried 3 000 rounds. This variant was developed in 1978;

   ZSU-23-4M3, fitted with friend-or-foe identification system, new fire control system, improved radar, laser rangefinder. This variant has a 74% chance of hitting air target, comparing with 30% of the baseline model. This variant was developed in 1978;

   ZSU-23-4M4, recent upgrade, fitted with two Igla surface-to-air missiles, new vision devices, improved radar, improved transmission. This variant was developed in 1999;

   Donets, Ukrainian improved variant, fitted with upgraded turret, armed with additional Strela-10M surface-to-air missiles. This variant is mounted on the T-80U main battle tank chassis and has much higher level of protection;

   ZSU-23-4MP Biala, Polish upgrade with added Grom anti-aircraft missile and a number of  improvements.