ZSU-57-2

   The ZSU-57-2 is a Soviet Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun (SPAAG). Its development began in the late 1940s. It was officially adopted by the Soviet Army and production commenced in 1956. Eventually the ZSU-57-2 was replaced by a more modern and much more effective ZSU-23-4 Shilka. Despite its age the ZSU-57-2 is still in service with a number of countries today.

   This SPAAG is fitted with two S-68 57 mm guns. It was essentially a twin mount of the S-60 towed anti-aircraft gun. These guns are air-cooled, so after firing 50-60 rounds in rapid mode the guns have to cool down. These guns are fed from magazines. Each magazine holds 4 rounds. The ZSU-57-2 fires fragmentation-tracers rounds against air targets and armor-piercing tracer rounds against ground targets. Direct hit of a single 57 mm round easily destroyed fighter or ground attack aircraft.

   The ZSU-57-2 has got no radar and uses open sights instead. Optical sight is used to engage ground targets. Due to the lack of night vision equipment the ZSU-57-2 it is not effective at night.

   This SPAAG has a very thin steel armor (maximum thickness 15 mm). Open top makes it defenseless against attacks from above. The ZSU-57-2 also lacks NBC protection system.

   Vehicle has a crew of 6, including commander, gunner, assistant gunner, 2 loaders and a driver.

   The ZSU-57-2 SPAAG chassis uses many automotive components of the T-54 medium tank. Vehicle is powered by a V-54 diesel engine, developing 520 horsepower.

Variants

   Type 80 SPAAG, Chinese copy of the ZSU-57-2, based on China's Type 69 medium tank chassis.