The ZU-23 mounts twin 23-mm cannons on a towed two-wheel carriage. The cannons are positioned side-by-side between large ring-type trunnions. In appearance, the ZU-23 can be confused with the 14.5-mm ZPU-2; however, the shape and placement of the ZU-23 ammunition boxes (at right angles to the gun carriage) and prominent muzzle flash suppressors are distinguishing features.
A battalion of 18 ZU-23s was organic to the Soviet airborne division and is the division's principal AAA weapon. It has an effective AA range of 2,500 meters. It also can be used effectively against lightly armored ground vehicles. In firing position, the ZU-23 is leveled by jacks and stabilized on a three-point base. An optical-mechanical computing sight is used for anti-aircraft fire and a straight-tube telescope for ground targets.
Ammunition is fed from box magazines mounted on the outside of each trunnion. Reloading is fast and uncomplicated. The magazines are easily accessible and the beginning link of the new belt attaches to the link of the last old cartridge which automatically interrupts the firing cycle when it reaches the feedway and signals the bolt to remain open.
The Iranian 23mm double barrel AA gun appears to be a locally built version of the ZU-23, manufactured by the SANAM Industry Group. It is described as being a suitable weapon against targets at a distance of 2500m and high of 1500m. It is designed for anti-aircraft defense and can also be used against light armored vehicles, 2000m away. Furthermore in clear weather with sufficient light, it can be used against concentration of live forces. CIT and APIT shells are used for firing at airborne and ground targets.Specifications | |
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ZU-23 23MM Antiaircraft Gun |
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Characteristics: |
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Crew |
5 |
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Length |
4.57 m |
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Height |
2.87m |
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Width |
1.83 |
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Combat Weight |
950 kg |
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Armament: |
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Antiaircraft gun |
Twin 23mm air -cooled ZAP 23 cannons, traverses 360 degrees |
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Maximum effective range (vertical) |
2,500 meters |
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Rate of fire |
Maximum: 800-1000 rds/min/barrel Sustained: 200rds/min/barrel |
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Type of ammunition |
API-T, HEI-T |
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Basic Load |
INA |
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Fire Control |
Optical-mechanical sight |
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Vehicle: (prime mover) |
UAZ-69 jeep |
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Maximum road speed |
90km/hr (56 mph) |
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Water Crossing ability |
Fords 1.1m (3.5 feet) |
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Cruising range (on roads) |
530 km (330 miles) |
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Night vision aids |
Infrared system can be fitted |
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Maximum armor thickness |
No armor |
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NBC Protection |
None |
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Vulnerabilities: |
Fixed location |
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Exposed personnel |
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Optics vulnerable to obscuration |
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Exposed ammunition |
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Recognition: |
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Two-wheeled carriage |
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Horizontally mounted rectangular ammo boxes |
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Prominent muzzle flash supressors |
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Wheels raised in firing position |
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