Finland-NATO tensions: Russia modernises Arctic defences
Russia's state defence conglomerate Rostec plans to bolster its Northern Military District bordering Finland and Norway with the deployment of its newly tested Coalition-SV self-propelled howitzers, reported News.ro.
This move comes amidst heightened tensions surrounding Finland's potential NATO accession.
Modernising Arctic Defences:
"Testing of the Coalition-SV has been completed, and serial production is already underway," declared Rostec chief Sergei Chemezov. Highlighting the strategic rationale behind the deployment, he added: "Artillery of this class is needed to provide an advantage over Western models in terms of range. I believe they will appear there (in the Northern Military District) soon."
Evolving Strategic Landscape:
Established in 2021, the Northern Military District expanded the operational scope of the Russian Northern Fleet beyond the Arctic, encompassing the Murmansk region – a critical land border with Finland and Norway.
Geopolitical Tensions Mount:
Since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has accused Western nations of orchestrating a proxy war and vowed to strengthen its western borders in response to Finland's pursuit of NATO membership.
Coalition-SV Capabilities:
Boasting a range of up to 70 kilometres, these howitzers feature a modern 2A88 gun (152 mm calibre) with a firing rate exceeding 10 rounds per minute. They also integrate an automated system for targeting, navigation, and weapon designation, reported TASS.
Deployment Timeline Unclear:
While Chemezov mentioned a late 2023 delivery date for the first batch, the precise time frame for deployment in the Northern Military District remains undisclosed.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
