Ukrainian artillery crews from the 24th Brigade have turned a captured russian self-propelled gun against its former operators during the ongoing battles for Chasiv Yar. The brigade recently released footage showing the Soviet-designed 2S5 Giatsint-S system firing at russian positions near the contested city.
According to the brigade, the 152 mm artillery system was seized earlier on another section of the frontline and later restored for Ukrainian service. Instead of being scrapped or used for spare parts, the heavy self-propelled gun was integrated into combat operations and deployed back into action against russian forces.
Read more: Ukrainian National Guard Breaks Through russian Defensive Positions Near Vovchansk (Video)
Ukrainian fighters gave the captured artillery piece the nickname Kraken, symbolizing its new role in Ukrainian hands. Brigade representatives noted that the weapon is now "working against its former owners".
The released combat footage shows the artillery crew preparing the gun, loading ammunition, and firing multiple rounds toward russian positions. The scenes underline the continued intensity of fighting around Chasiv Yar, one of the key hotspots in the east of Ukraine where russian troops have been attempting to advance for months.
The 2S5 Giatsint-S is a long-range Soviet-era self-propelled artillery system developed for deep-fire missions. Armed with a powerful 152 mm cannon, the platform is capable of striking targets at ranges exceeding several dozen kilometers, depending on the type of ammunition used. Despite its age, the system remains a dangerous asset because of its firepower and reach.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukraine's General Staff confirmed successful attacks on key russian military-industrial facilities involved in explosives and guided bomb production.
Read more: Ukraine Strikes russian Explosives Plants and Major Ammunition Arsenal
