Russia turns to its most outdated stocks of guns — military expert Zgurets

He shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

"Defense Express analyzed a photo showing the enemy using an M-46 cannon on one of the front lines. These are indeed guns manufactured around 80 years ago, likely in the 1950s, as production of the M-46 ceased long ago. They had been out of use for a significant period. However, it appears that these guns are being reintroduced to the battlefield. The peculiarity of the M-46 gun is that it has a rather non-standard caliber of 130 mm with a range of up to 27 km. The DPRK has such ammunition, and Russia also has some leftovers," commented the expert.

According to him, two conclusions can be drawn. The first is that Russia is resorting to using its most outdated stocks, with approximately 350 units of these M-46s. It is possible that Russia will continue to deploy such guns. The second conclusion is that Russian forces face shortages in guns and ammunition, and Ukraine’s counter-battery efforts are proving effective.

"But to a large extent, the situation on the battlefield will depend on the amount of ammunition. We have to note the active work of Germany, which last week announced a new package that includes ammunition. France is increasing its production of ammunition and promises to provide us with up to 3,000 rounds of 155 mm ammunition every month. European officials say they will be able to fulfill their promise to supply Ukraine with 1 million rounds of ammunition. Meanwhile, Russia is betting both on its own forces and on cooperation with North Korea," noted Zgurets.

• On January 19, Defense Express reported that Russia was developing a cheap attack drone capable of flying 350 kilometers.
• On January 22, ISW reported that the Russian leadership was intensifying relations with North Korea to buy more artillery ammunition from abroad amid a shortage of ammunition in Russia.