Russia’s Ministry of Defense has released the first footage of its crewless howitzer prototype, known as the Klever, showcasing the system’s gunfire tests.
The footage, shared by TV Zvezda, reveals the Russian military’s latest efforts to advance its artillery capabilities through automation and robotics.
The Klever, a 122mm howitzer mounted on a robotic tracked platform, is presented as an innovative artillery system designed to fire remotely without risking the lives of its operators. The howitzer features an automated loading system capable of handling four rounds, theoretically allowing it to emerge from cover, fire its rounds, and retreat to safety autonomously.
However, the release of detailed images of the prototype has raised questions about the system’s true capabilities. Observers have noted that the Klever lacks the ability to aim the howitzer remotely. This limitation means that after moving to a firing position, the gun crew must manually aim the howitzer, adjust it after each shot, and make any necessary corrections. Contrary to initial claims, the system cannot fire without direct human intervention.
🇷🇺 Footage of the 122-mm robotic self-propelled gun “Klever,” a D-30 howitzer mounted on an MTS15 tracked chassis. #Russia #MilitaryTech #SelfPropelledGun pic.twitter.com/qgIxy9lyDz
— Popsicle Protector OSNIT (@PopsicleProtect) August 25, 2024
Essentially, the Klever is a robotic platform equipped with a Soviet-era D-30 howitzer, rather than a fully autonomous, crewless artillery system as originally promoted.
The development of such systems comes at a time when modern warfare increasingly emphasizes reducing human exposure to battlefield dangers, particularly in counter-battery scenarios where quick retaliation can be lethal.