The 2S19 "Msta-S" (Russian: after the Msta River) is a 152.4 mm self-propelled howitzer designed by Soviet Union, which entered service in 1989 as the successor to the 2S3 Akatsiya. The vehicle is based on the T-80 tank hull, but is powered by the T-72's diesel engine. 2S19M2 or 2S33 "Msta-SM2" (2013) - Improved version currently in production equipped with a new automatic fire control system which increases the rate of fire. Digital electronic maps are now available which significantly speeds up the terrain orientation in difficult geographical conditions and allows performing faster and more efficiently firing missions. Russians say that its range is up to 80 km.
Development of the 2S19 started in 1980 under the project name Ferma. The prototype was known as Objekt 316. The 2S19's standard equipment consists of a semi-automatic laying system 1P22, an automatic loader, an NBC protection system, passive night vision device for the driver, a wading kit, a dozer blade, a smoke generator and 81mm smoke launchers, 1V116 intercom system and a 16 kW generator AP-18D. In 2008 the Russian armed forces ordered an improved model with an automated fire control system. The 2A64 ordnance of the 2S19 can fire the following types of ammunition, among others: HE (24.7 km), HEAT-FS, HE-BB (28.9 km), HERA (36 km), smoke, chemical, tactical nuclear, illumination and cargo (ICM). The laser-guided round “Krasnopol” (of the 9K25 system) can also be launched, as well as the shorter "Krasnopol-M” which fits into the automatic loader.
Msta-S howitzers were used by Russian Army to deliver artillery strikes against Chechen separatists during the Second Chechen War. Msta-S howitzers have also been used in the War in Donbass by the Ukrainian Army as well as pro-Russian separatists who captured one machine during the conflict.