August M
A little-known weapon from the past has resurfaced on the battlefield in Ukraine.
Its reappearance is raising new questions about Russia’s military capabilities.
According to WPtech, Ukrainian military analyst Oleksandr Kovalenko says the deployment of the 2S31 Vena reflects growing shortages in Russian artillery.
Old system returns
The 2S31 Vena was originally developed in the late Soviet period as a successor to older mortar systems.
Production only began years later and remained limited, with relatively few units ever built, WPtech reports.
Most of the systems stayed in Russia, with a small number exported abroad.
Sign of shortages
Kovalenko argues that the weapon’s appearance now is not a sign of strength.
“This vehicle appears in the war zone due to a shortage of self-propelled artillery units,” he said.
According to WPtech, he believes Russia is increasingly forced to pull older or rare equipment from storage to sustain operations.
Mixed capabilities
The system itself combines features of a mortar and artillery gun, capable of firing different types of ammunition.
WPtech reports it can deliver a relatively high rate of fire, giving it some battlefield utility.
However, Kovalenko noted that its protection is limited and that it suffers from issues typical of equipment produced in small numbers.
Legacy of the USSR
Development of the Vena was disrupted after the collapse of the Soviet Union, which hindered its widespread adoption.
As a result, the system never became a standard part of Russia’s arsenal, remaining relatively obscure.
Battlefield implications
Kovalenko said the weapon may still offer some offensive potential, but its deployment highlights deeper problems.
“Despite its advantages, this is not mass-produced equipment,” he said.
According to WPtech, its presence on the front line suggests Russia is facing increasing pressure on its artillery resources.
Sources: WPtech
