M-201-2

History of the M-201-2 Artillery Variant

Building on the success of the M-201 Military Utility Truck, the M-201-2 was introduced in the 1980s as an artillery variant designed to provide mobile fire support. This variant featured an innovative oscillating turret with a revolver autoloader, enhancing its firepower and operational efficiency.

Key Features:

• Front-Wheel Drive: Similar to the base M-201, the M-201-2 retained the FWD configuration, ensuring it maintained good traction and maneuverability.
• Oscillating Turret: The M-201-2's turret design allowed for a higher rate of fire and improved accuracy. The oscillating turret could traverse and elevate independently, enabling rapid targeting and engagement of multiple threats.
• Revolver Autoloader: The revolver autoloader system enabled quick reloading and sustained fire, allowing the M-201-2 to deliver continuous fire support without frequent manual intervention. This system housed multiple shells in a rotating drum, which automatically fed them into the firing chamber.
• Piston-Lift System: The M-201-2 included a unique piston-lift system that, when activated, lifted the landcraft off the ground to prevent the turret from hitting the floor during operations. This system provided stability and ensured the effective operation of the turret.
• Enhanced Mobility: Despite the additional weight of the turret and ammunition, the M-201-2 retained the mobility and durability of the base M-201, ensuring it could keep pace with advancing troops and reposition quickly as needed.
• Integrated Fire Control: Advanced fire control systems, including ballistic computers and targeting sensors, were integrated to enhance accuracy and reduce response times during combat operations.

The M-201-2 provided critical artillery support, enhancing the firepower and tactical flexibility of the units it supported. Its innovative design, including the piston-lift system, marked a significant advancement in military vehicle technology, showcasing the importance of modularity, adaptability, and technological integration in modern warfare.

Inspired by the Swedish Archer SPG