View source for ZU-23-2

{{Infobox weapon
| name               = ZU-23-2
| image              = ZU-23-2 in Saint Petersburg.jpg
| image_size         = 300
| caption            = A ZU-23-2
| origin             = [[Soviet Union]]
| type               = Towed 23&nbsp;mm anti-aircraft twin autocannon
<!-- Type selection -->| is_ranged          = yes
| is_bladed          = 
| is_explosive       = yes
| is_artillery       = yes
| is_vehicle         = 
| is_missile         = yes
| is_UK              = <!-- Service history -->
| service            = 1960–present
| used_by            = See [[ZU-23-2#Operators|Operators section]]
<!-- Production history -->| manufacturer       = 
| designer           = [[KBP Instrument Design Bureau]]
| design_date        = Late 1950s
| production_date    = 1960–present [http://kbptula.ru/eng/str/cannons/2a14.htm]
| number             = 
| variants           = See [[ZU-23-2#Variants and upgrades|Variants and upgrades]]
<!-- General specifications -->| spec_label         = ZU-23-2
| weight             = 0.95 tonnes (2,094 lbs)
| length             = {{convert|4.57|m|ft|abbr=on|sigfig=1}}
| part_length        = {{convert|2.008|m|in|abbr=on|sigfig=3}} (87.3 calibers)
| width              = {{convert|2.88|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| height             = {{convert|1.22|m|ft|abbr=on|sigfig=1}}
| diameter           = 
| crew               = 2 (gunner and commander)
| passengers         = <!-- Ranged weapon specifications -->
| cartridge          = [[23x152B]]
| cartridge_weight   = 
| caliber            = 23 mm
| barrels            = 2
| action             = [[Gas operated]]
| elevation          = −10° to +90°<ref>{{Cite book|title=Jane's Pocket Book of Towed Artillery|last=Foss|first=Christopher|date=1977 |publisher=Collier|page=221|isbn=0-02-080600-0|location=New York|oclc=911907988}}</ref>
| traverse           = 360°
| rate               = 2000 rpm cyclic, 400 rpm practical (per cannon)
| range              = {{convert|2.5|km|miles|abbr=on|sigfig=1}} effective range
| max_range          = 
| feed               = 2x 50 round belt
| velocity           = 
| sights             = <!-- Artillery specifications -->
| breech             = 
| recoil             = 
| carriage           = 
| wars               = [[Angolan Civil War]]<br />[[South African Border War]]<br />[[Ethiopian Civil War]]<br />[[Lebanese Civil War]]<br />[[Soviet–Afghan War]]<br />[[Western Sahara War]]<ref name='Sahara'>{{cite magazine|language = it|title =Il contenzioso del sahara occidentale fra passato e presente |url = https://www.difesa.it/InformazioniDellaDifesa/periodico/periodico_2012/Documents/R4_2012/50_59_R4_2012.pdf|author =Francesco Palmas |issue= 4|year= 2012 |pages =50–59|newspaper = Informazioni della Difesa }}</ref><br />[[Somali Civil War]]<br /> 
[[Iran–Iraq War]]<br />[[United States invasion of Grenada]]<br />[[Second Sudanese Civil War]]<br />[[Siachen conflict]]<br />[[Operation Praying Mantis]]<br />[[Gulf War]]<br />[[Georgian Civil War]]<br />[[First Chechen War]]<br />[[Second Chechen War]]<br />[[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)]]<br />[[South Lebanon conflict (1985–2000)]]<br />[[2006 Lebanon War]]<br />[[Russo-Georgian War]]<br />[[First Libyan Civil War]]<br />[[Sudanese conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile]]<ref name="SAS Kordofan">{{cite journal|url=http://www.smallarmssurveysudan.org/fileadmin/docs/facts-figures/arms-ammunition-tracing-desk/HSBA-Tracing-Desk-SPLA-N-SK-Feb-2013.pdf|journal=HSBA Arms and Ammunition Tracing Desk|title=SPLA-N weapons and equipment, South Kordofan, December 2012|publisher=Small Arms Survey|date=February 2013|page=8|access-date=2 January 2019|archive-date=22 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322044524/http://www.smallarmssurveysudan.org/fileadmin/docs/facts-figures/arms-ammunition-tracing-desk/HSBA-Tracing-Desk-SPLA-N-SK-Feb-2013.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref><br />[[Syrian Civil War]]<ref name="Technicals 10"/><br />[[Northern Mali conflict]]<ref>{{cite report|title= Rebel Forces in Northern Mali: Documented weapons, ammunition and related materiel, April 2012-March 2013|publisher = [[Conflict Armament Research]] and [[Small Arms Survey]]|date= April 2013|url=http://www.conflictarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Rebel_Forces_in_Northern_Mali.pdf }}</ref><br />[[Russo-Ukrainian War]]<br />[[War in Donbas (2014–2022)|War in Donbas]]<br />[[Second Libyan Civil War]]<br />[[Yemeni Civil War (2014–present)]]<ref name="Technicals 10">{{cite book|title=Technicals: Non-Standard Tactical Vehicles from the Great Toyota War to modern Special Forces|series=New Vanguard 257|first= Leigh|last= Neville|date=19 Apr 2018 |isbn=9781472822512|publisher=[[Osprey Publishing]]|page=10|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=mGlPDwAAQBAJ}}</ref><br />[[Tigray War]]<br />[[Russian invasion of Ukraine]]<br />[[War in Amhara]]<br />[[Sudanese civil war (2023–present)]]<br />[[2025 India–Pakistan conflict]]<br />[[Iran–Israel war]]<br />
}}
The '''ZU-23-2''', also known as '''ZU-23''', is a [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] towed [[23×152mm]] [[anti-aircraft]] [[autocannon|twin-barreled autocannon]]. ZU stands for ''Zenitnaya Ustanovka'' (Russian: Зенитная Установка) – anti-aircraft mount. The [[GRAU]] index is '''2A13'''.<ref name="articles.janes.com">{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/ZU-23-2-Russian-Federation.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>

== Development history ==
The ZU-23-2 was developed in the late 1950s. It was designed to engage low-flying targets at ranges up to 2.5&nbsp;km as well as armoured vehicles at a range of two kilometres and for direct defence of troops and strategic locations against air assault usually conducted by helicopters and low-flying airplanes.<ref name="Militarium.net">{{cite web|url=http://www.militarium.net/viewart.php?aid=86|title=Militarium.net|website=militarium.net|access-date=6 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612153634/http://militarium.net/viewart.php?aid=86|archive-date=12 June 2010|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> In 1955, KBP presented the single-barrel ZU-1 and the twin-barrel '''ZU-14'''. While the former was eventually dropped, the ZU-14 was selected and, after some modifications, entered series production.

In the Soviet Union, some 140,000 units were produced. The ZU-23 has also been produced under licence by Bulgaria,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/Arsenal-Joint-Stock-Company-JSC--ZU-23-2-twin-23-mm-anti-aircraft-mount-Bulgaria.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018|archive-date=26 January 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126184307/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/Arsenal-Joint-Stock-Company-JSC--ZU-23-2-twin-23-mm-anti-aircraft-mount-Bulgaria.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Poland, Egypt<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/ZU-23M-Egypt.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> and the People's Republic of China.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/23-mm-Type-80-China.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>

Development of this weapon into a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun led to the [[ZSU-23-4 Shilka]].

== Description ==
The ZU-23-2 (2A13) mounts two 23&nbsp;mm [[autocannon]]s on a small trailer which can be converted into a stationary mount for firing the guns. While in this position the wheels are moved aside. The autocannon can be prepared for firing from the march position in 30 seconds and in emergency can be fired from the traveling position. The weapon is aimed and fired manually, with the help of the ZAP-23 optical-mechanical sight which uses manually entered target data to provide limited automatic aiming. It also has a straight-tube telescope T-3 for use against ground targets such as infantry as well as unarmored or lightly armoured vehicles. The ammo is fed by a conveyor belt from two ammunition boxes. Each of the ammunition boxes is located on the side of the twin autocannon and each carries 50 rounds. The fumes created by firing the weapon are partially removed through the side openings in the barrels.<ref name="Militarium.net" />

Normally, once each barrel has fired 100 rounds it becomes too hot and is therefore replaced with a spare barrel. Each weapon is normally provided with two replacement barrels as part of its standard equipment. [[Tulamashzavod]] Joint Stock Company is offering{{when|date=May 2022}} to upgrade the 2A14 guns to the 2A14M standard with a barrel life of 10,000 rounds instead of 8,000 rounds.{{citation needed|date=May 2022}}

The cannon carriage is based on the earlier [[ZPU-2]] anti-aircraft twin heavy machine gun, which mounted two [[KPV]] [[14.5×114mm]] [[heavy machine gun]]s. ZU-23-2 can be identified by different placement of the ammunition boxes (at right angles to the gun carriage) and by muzzle flash suppressors. In another similarity to the ZPU series, single-barrel and four-barrel versions of the ZU-23 were also developed. However, these versions never entered service.

The ZU-23-2 can be towed by a number of different vehicles. In USSR and later Russia the most frequently used towing vehicles for it were [[GAZ-66]] [[4x4]] trucks and [[GAZ-69]] 4x4 light trucks.<ref name="Militarium.net" />

The weapon is known in the Finnish forces colloquially as '''Sergei'''.<ref name="Ruotuväki">{{cite magazine |title=Toimintavarma vanhus |author=Arttu Laaksokari |url=https://ruotuvaki.fi/-/toimintavarma-vanhus |magazine=Ruotuväki |location= |publisher=Puolustusvoimat |date=April 16, 2017 |access-date=June 2, 2021 }}</ref>

== Ammunition ==
The 23&nbsp;mm AA gun utilizes the same 23x152B case as the wartime [[Volkov-Yartsev VYa-23|VYa]] aircraft autocannon. Due to different loadings and primers the ammunition is not interchangeable, however: ammunition of the anti-aircraft cannon can be identified from its steel casings, ammunition for the aircraft cannon having brass cases instead.<ref name="AWilliams">{{Cite web|title=From Tony Williams|url=https://www.quarryhs.co.uk/collecting%2023-28mm.htm|access-date=2022-01-28|website=www.quarryhs.co.uk|archive-date=15 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220115034310/https://www.quarryhs.co.uk/collecting%2023-28mm.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> The following table lists the main characteristics of some of the available 23x152B ammunition used in 23&nbsp;mm AA guns:

{| class="wikitable" style="width:75%;"
|-
! Designation !! Type !! Projectile Weight [g] !! Bursting charge [g] !! Muzzle Velocity [m/s] !! Description
|-
| BZT || API || 190 <ref name="rusammo">{{Cite web|title=The Russian Ammunition Page - Home|url=http://www.russianammo.org/|access-date=2022-01-28|website=www.russianammo.org|archive-date=19 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091019161335/http://www.russianammo.org/|url-status=dead}}</ref>|| ? || 970 || Blunt AP steel core, with incendiary charge inside windshield cap.<ref name="rusammo" /> Penetration 15&nbsp;mm RHA at 1000&nbsp;m range and 30 degree impact angle (from perpendicular), tracer burn time 5 seconds.
|-
| OFZ || HE || 184 <ref name="rusammo" /> || 19 <ref name="ORDATA">{{Cite web|last=CISR-JMU|title=Center for International Stabilization and Recovery|url=https://www.jmu.edu/cisr/index.shtml|access-date=2022-01-28|website=www.jmu.edu|language=en}}</ref>|| 980<ref name="rusammo" /> || HE fragmentation round with nose fuzes incorporating self-destruct mechanism.<ref name="rusammo" />
|-
| OFZT || HE-T || 188<ref name="rusammo" />|| 13 <ref name="ORDATA" />  ||980<ref name="rusammo" /> || HE fragmentation round with a reduced HE charge due to the space taken by the tracer; tracer burn time 5 seconds.
|-
| APDS-T ||  APDS-T || 103 || none || 1220 || A Polish sub-caliber armour-piercing round with tracer, introduced in 2008.<ref>''23 mm amunicja podlaibrowa produkcji ZM Mesko S.A.'' (2007), "Nowa Technika Wojskowa" Nr 11/2007, p. 14 (in Polish)</ref> Penetration 30&nbsp;mm RHA at 1000&nbsp;m range and 30 degree impact angle (from perpendicular), tracer burn time >2.5 s.
|}
Not only the gun itself but also the ammunition is produced in several countries. In Bulgaria, the company ARCUS Co. produces rounds and fuses for the 2A7 and 2A14 guns.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.arcus-bg.com/|title=ARCUS Co.|website=www.arcus-bg.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>

== Service history ==
[[File:Zu-23-2-belarus.jpg|thumb|ZU-23-2 firing. Vitebsk, Belarus]]
The ZU-23-2 first entered service with the Soviet Army in 1960. The gun is often mounted on trucks for use in both anti-aircraft and direct fire support roles. It can also be mounted on the roof of the [[MT-LB]] multi-purpose tracked APCs. A specially modified three-legged ZU-23-2 autocannon is used as the base for the [[BTR-D|BTR-DG]] airborne SPAAG. Cheap, easy to operate and still effective, the ZU-23-2 is still used by the [[Russian Ground Forces|Russian Army]] and by more than 20 other armies.

From 1965 onwards, the Soviet Union began supplying the [[Democratic Republic of Vietnam]] with large shipments of weapons.<ref>Tucker, Spencer C (2011). The Encyclopedia of the Vietnam War: A Political, Social, and Military History. ABC-CLIO. pp. 52. {{ISBN|9781851099603}}</ref> The 23&nbsp;mm ZU-23-2 was, along with the [[37 mm automatic air defence gun M1939 (61-K)|37&nbsp;mm M1939]], the most frequently encountered anti-aircraft gun in Vietnam. Given that 83% of the USAF losses came from ground fire, the ZU-23 was probably responsible for shooting down hundreds of aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.airforcemag.com/MagazineArchive/Pages/2013/February%202013/0213vietnam.aspx|title = The Crucible of Vietnam}}</ref>

During the [[Soviet–Afghan War]], the Soviet forces placed ZU-23-2 sets in the occupied areas to secure their positions, employing them in both the static defense and direct fire support roles. In the later [[War in Afghanistan (2001–present)|Afghan Civil War]], the main belligerents, the [[Taliban]] and the [[Northern Alliance]] forces also employed ZU-23-2 autocannons mounted on [[BMP-1]] and [[BTR-70]] APCs or [[GAZ-66]] and [[ZIL-131]] trucks, along with [[9K32 Strela-2|SA-7 Grail]] or [[FIM-92 Stinger|Stinger Missile]]s, as their primary air-defense and direct fire support weapons.

The ZU-23-2 was extensively employed during the [[Lebanese Civil War]], mounted on a variety of civilian and military vehicles, including [[M113 armored personnel carrier|M113]] and [[BTR-152]] APCs, [[Ram Pickup#First generation (1981–1993; D/W)|Dodge Ram (1st generation) pickup truck]]s, [[AIL M325 Command Car]]s, [[Toyota Dyna|Toyota Dyna U10-series truck]]s, [[Dodge Power Wagon|Dodge W600 medium-duty truck]]s and [[M35 series 2½-ton 6x6 cargo truck|M35A1/A2 truck]]s.{{sfn|Neville|2018|p=14}} They proved very useful in [[Urban warfare|urban combat]], being employed in the direct fire support role by the [[Syrian Army]], the [[Palestine Liberation Organization]] (PLO) guerrilla factions and the [[List of militias in the Lebanese Civil War|various Christian and Muslim Lebanese militias]].<ref>{{cite book|first= Steven J. |last=Zaloga|title=Tank battles of the Mid-East Wars (2): The wars of 1973 to the present|publisher=Concord Publications|location= Hong Kong |year=2003|isbn=962-361-613-9|page=7}}</ref> In late 1983, the ZU-23-2 was used on attacks against dug-in positions held by [[United States Marine Corps|U.S. Marine]] ground units serving with the [[Multinational Force in Lebanon]] (MNF II). At the time, a Marine spokesman described such antipersonnel use of the weapon as a violation of the [[laws of war]]; however, writing for the ''[[Marine Corps Gazette]]'' in 1988, Maj. W. Hays Parks dismissed this allegation as incorrect.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mca-marines.org/gazette/killing-myth |title=Killing A Myth |last1=Parks |first1=Maj W. Hays |date=January 1988 |work=Marine Corps Gazette |access-date=23 February 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228114414/http://www.mca-marines.org/gazette/killing-myth |archive-date=28 February 2014 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

During the [[Gulf War]] of 1991, it was a favorite weapon of the [[Iraqi Army]], albeit used more often against ground targets such as infantry and light enemy vehicles. They tended to use it more against ground targets as the ZU-23-2 is ineffective against fast-moving jet aircraft, though later on it was proven to be relatively ineffective as it inflicted few casualties throughout the war.

The ZU-23-2 also saw usage during the [[Georgian Civil War]] and at least one kill was claimed by a ZU-23-2, when Georgian forces shot down a [[Sukhoi Su-25]] fighter-bomber jet on 4 June 1993.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.skywar.ru/oldussr.html|title=CIS region - Авиация в локальных конфликтах - www.skywar.ru|website=www.skywar.ru|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>
[[File:IDF displays captured Hezbollah weapons, December 2024. III.jpg|thumb|ZU-23-2 on a pickup truck used in the [[Gaza war]] in 2024]]
The ZU-23-2 had seen widespread use by both sides in the [[Libyan Civil War (2011)|Libyan Civil War]], being often mounted on [[Technical (vehicle)|technical]] pickup trucks.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/rebels-down-libyan-aircraft-as-world-leaders-discuss-next-move-383784.html|title=Rebels down Libyan aircraft as world leaders discuss next move|newspaper=Arabian Business|date=28 February 2011 |access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>{{sfn|Neville|2018|p=34}} The weapon has also been heavily used in the [[Syrian Civil War]], being installed on pickup trucks and is credited for bringing down several [[Syrian Air Force]] helicopters.<ref name="Technicals 10"/> Technicals equipped with ZU-23-2 autocannons have also been frequently employed against moving ground targets. During the [[Yemeni Civil War (2015–present)|Yemeni Civil War]], ZU-23-2 autocannons are said to have engaged [[Saudi Arabia|Saudi]] tanks.<ref name="Technicals 10"/>

On 4 May 2020, ZU-23 was used by [[Ethiopia|Ethiopian]] troops stationed in [[Somalia]] as part of the [[African Union Mission to Somalia]] (AMISOM) to mistakenly shoot down an [[Embraer EMB 120 Brasilia|Embraer EMB 120RT Brasilia]] transporting medical supplies and mosquito nets while on approach to [[Berdale|Bardalee, Somalia]], killing all six people onboard. The confusion arose from the fact the airplane was approaching from the west, instead of the usual easterly landing direction, and overflew the airfield at a low altitude due to animals on or in the vicinity of the runway. Ethiopian soldiers interpreted these facts as indicative of a [[Suicide attack|suicide plane]] looking to strike targets within the base camp, and responded with fire.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ranter |first=Harro |title=ASN Aircraft accident Embraer EMB-120RT Brasilia 5Y-AXO Bardale Airstrip |url=https://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=20200504-0 |access-date=2022-10-16 |website=aviation-safety.net}}</ref>

The ZU-23-2, along with [[Bofors 40 mm Automatic Gun L/70|Bofors L/70]], was used by the Indian Army Air Defence to shoot down drones during the [[2025 India–Pakistan conflict]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/gun-systems-l-70-zu-23-schilka-extremely-effective-in-thwarting-pakistans-drone-swarm-attacks-top-army-air-defence-officer/articleshow/121275136.cms|title=Gun systems L-70, Zu-23, Schilka extremely effective in thwarting Pakistan's drone swarm attacks: Top Army Air Defence officer|access-date=2025-05-25|website=The Economic Times |date=19 May 2025 }}</ref>

== Variants and upgrades ==
=== Soviet Union/Russian Federation ===
[[File:Zu-23 30 M1-3 - InnovationDay2013part1-40.jpg|thumb|Modified ZU-23/30M1-3]]
* '''ZU-23M''' – Upgraded variant, designed by the [[Nudelman Precision Engineering Design Bureau]] (KB Tochmash). Has new targeting system (which includes laser rangefinder, television channel, optical mechanic device, can be reinforced with thermo location channel and a television system for usage at night) and electromechanic turn system. Optionally, the mount can be fitted with two short-range air-defence missiles, such as the [[Strela-2|9M32M "Strela-2M"]] or the [[9K38 Igla|9M39 "Igla"]].<ref name="milparade.udm.ru">{{Cite web |url=http://milparade.udm.ru/security/28/074x.htm |title=Modernization of Zu-23 |access-date=6 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100614165603/http://milparade.udm.ru/security/28/074x.htm |archive-date=14 June 2010 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>http://testwww.janes.com/articles/International-Defence-Review-98/RUSSIA--AUTOMATIC-AIMING-FOR-ZU-23-2-LAAG.html{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
* '''ZU-23M1''' – This is the current model, developed by Open Joint Stock Company Podolsky Electromechanical Plant of Special Engineering "PEMZ Spetsmash" and Closed Joint Stock Company "NTC Elins" and offered by [[Rosoboronexport]]. Like the ZU-23M, it has an upgraded fire control system and can optionally be fitted with two launchers for the "Igla" series missile, usually the [[SA-24 Igla-S|9M342 "Igla-S"]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/26822716@N02/2948338319/in/photostream/|title=Defendory International 2008 034|website=flickr.com|date=11 October 2008|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>
** The complete air-defence gun/missile system is called '''ZU-23/ZOM1''' (often erroneously called "ZU-23/30M1"). It consists of the "missile-gun firing module"  (''strel'bovoj modul'') '''ZU-23/ZOM1-SM'''; the "missile-launching module" (''puskovoj modul'') ZU-23/ZOM1-PM armed with four [[Strela-10|9M333 "Strela-10"]] missiles; a remote control module (''modul distantsionnogo upravleniya'') ZU-23/ZOM1-MU and a portable generator AB-1. Depending on the wishes of the client, the system can be delivered without the -SM module ('''ZU-23/ZOM1-1'''), without the -PM module ('''ZU-23/ZOM1-2'''), without the remote control ('''ZU-23/ZOM1-3'''), or without -PM and -MU modules ('''ZU-23/ZOM1-4''').<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flickr.com/photos/26822716@N02/2948327015/|title=Defendory International 2008 033|website=flickr.com|date=11 October 2008|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> The latter can be carried by the Samum 4x4 wheeled chassis vehicle and the first export contract has been signed as of early 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/january_2019_global_defense_security_army_news_industry/pemz_from_russia_first_export_contract_for_samum_23mm_anti-aircraft_vehicle.html|title=PEMZ from Russia first export contract for Samum 23mm anti-aircraft vehicle &#124; January 2019 Global Defense Security army news industry &#124; Defense Security global news industry army 2019 &#124; Archive News year|website=www.armyrecognition.com|date=2 January 2019 }}</ref>

=== Polish People's Republic / Poland ===
[[File:Pokaz sprzętu dla prezydenta Republiki Indonezji 02cr.jpg|thumb|ZUR-23-2KG]]
[[File:Hibneryt 453 5180.jpg|thumb|Star 266 mounted ZUR-23-2KG gun (Hibneryt)]]
* '''ZU-23-2''' – Polish designation for basic gun variant. Manufactured under license in [[Zakłady Mechaniczne "Tarnów" S.A.]] (ZMT Tarnów) since 1972.<ref name=ntw>{{in lang|pl}} ''"Dwudziestkitrójki" z Tarnowa'' ["Twentythrees" from Tarnów] in: Nowa Technika Wojskowa Nr. 9/2010, p. 76-78</ref>
* '''ZUR-23-2S Jod''' – Polish variant with electro-optical sight GP-1R and twin launcher for [[9K32 Strela-2|Strela-2M]] missiles, used from 1988.<ref name=ntw />
** '''ZUR 23-2KG Jodek-G''' – Development of ZUR-23-2S with more advanced [[reflex sight]] CKE-2 (later CP-1 night-and-day sight with laser rangefinder), electromechanic gun turn system and twin launcher for [[PZR Grom|Grom]] missiles, produced from 2002.<ref name=ntw /> 
*** '''ZUR-23-2KG-I''' – Improved export version for Indonesia with CKE-2I sight.
*** '''TR-23-2''' – Training simulator version of the ZUR-23-2KG-I. The set consists of an instructor's station and a gunner's station (a modified "artillery-missile unit" with the sight replaced by a computer station). Both stations are linked by a wireless network.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://62.129.200.244/pdf/trenazer_en.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=8 June 2012 |archive-date=13 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413140425/http://62.129.200.244/pdf/trenazer_en.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>
**'''ZUR 23-2SP Jodek-SP''' – Version used in PSRA Pilica VSHORAD system.<ref name="PSRA Pilica VSHORAD">{{Cite web|url=https://www.armyrecognition.com/poland_polish_army_artillery_vehicle_and_system_uk/psra_pilica_vshorad_very_short-range_air_defense_system_technical_data_sheet_pictures_video_12812166.html|title=PSRA Pilica VSHORAD Very SHOrt-Range Air Defense system data &#124; Poland Polish Army artillery vehicle and system UK &#124; Poland Polish army military equipment UK|website=www.armyrecognition.com}}</ref>
** '''Kobra''' – Polish export short-range modular air-defense system. A typical battery consists of up to 6 guns (for example ZUR-23-2&nbsp;kg), up to 6 Poprad systems, a WD-95 command post and a Radwar MMSR radar.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bumar.com/dywizje_flash/admin/store/images/image-1304661693-link.pdf%7B%7BDead+link%7Cdate=August+2018+%7Cbot=InternetArchiveBot+%7Cfix-attempted=yes+%7D%7D|title=AfterMarket.pl :: domain bumar.com|website=www.bumar.com|access-date=28 January 2022|archive-date=28 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128125441/http://www.bumar.com/dywizje_flash/admin/store/images/image-1304661693-link.pdf%7B%7BDead%20link%7Cdate%3DAugust%202018%20%7Cbot%3DInternetArchiveBot%20%7Cfix-attempted%3Dyes%20%7D%7D|url-status=dead}}</ref>
** '''Hibneryt''' – A ZU-23-2 family gun mounted on specially modified [[Star 266]] truck, truck is fitted with additional ammunition for the gun and modified electrical installation to power guns electromechanic turn system (gun can also work from batteries).
** '''ZU-23-2M Wróbel''' – Polish naval version of ZU-23-2, hydraulically powered, produced from 1979.<ref name=ntw />
** '''ZU-23-2MR Wróbel-II''' – Polish naval version of ZUR-23-2S, with [[9K32 Strela-2|Strela-2M]] missiles and water-cooled barrels, produced from 1986<ref name=ntw /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Electro-Optic-Systems/Polish-Navy-Wrobel-II-ZU-23-2MR-Poland.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref>

=== Czech Republic ===
* '''ZU-23-2M2 Vlara''' – Field upgrade modernization kit.

=== Slovak Republic ===
* '''ZU-23M''' – Upgraded version with automatic fire control system, developed by the EVPU company.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.epicos.com/companies-search|title=Industry Directory|website=epicos.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> This version is offered by EVPU and the Punj Lloyd Ltd of India to the Indian army.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.punjlloyd.com/sites/default/files/pdf/Force%20April%20Issue%202012%5B1%5D.pdf |title=Serious about defence |access-date=6 June 2012 |archive-date=25 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220325162511/http://www.punjlloyd.com/sites/default/files/pdf/Force%20April%20Issue%202012%5B1%5D.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

=== Egypt ===
* '''ZU 23-M''' – Licence version of the ZU-23. It is also known as '''SH-23M''' and is produced by Abu Zaabal Engineering Industries (Factory 100).<ref name="ReferenceA" />
** '''Nile 23''' – Self-propelled version on the tracked [[M113]]. A system consists of the combat vehicle with ZU 23-M guns and surface-to-air missiles [[Strela-2|Saqr Eye]], and a tracker vehicle, also based on the M113.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jedsite.info/fulltrack-mike/mike-number-us/m113_series/nile-23/nile23.html|title=JED|website=jedsite.info|access-date=6 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202081827/http://www.jedsite.info/fulltrack-mike/mike-number-us/m113_series/nile-23/nile23.html|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://jedsite.info/fulltrack-mike/mike-number-us/m113_series/nile-23-tracker/nile23t.html|title=JED|website=jedsite.info|access-date=6 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202081822/http://www.jedsite.info/fulltrack-mike/mike-number-us/m113_series/nile-23-tracker/nile23t.html|archive-date=2 December 2013|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
** '''Sinai 23''' – Similar to the Nile 23, with two Zu-23 guns and six Saqr-Eye missiles mounted on a TA-23E turret and fitted with a RA-20S E-band radar. Developed by Dassault and selected by Egypt in preference to Nile 23, entering service by 1992.<ref>{{harvnb|Cullen|Foss|1992|pp=62–63}}</ref> Instead of the Saqr Eye, [[FIM-92 Stinger]] missiles can be used.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jedsite.info/fulltrack-mike/mike-number-us/m113_series/sinai-23/sinai23.html|title=JED|website=jedsite.info|access-date=6 May 2018}}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

=== Finland ===
[[File:SAKO 23mm 87 (1).jpg|thumb|Sako 23 M85]]
* '''23 ItK 95''' – Finnish upgrade of the original 23 ItK 61, designed by Instrumentointi Oy and Vammas Oy. The upgrade adds gyro-stabilization to the gun, along with an APU and a laser rangefinder.<ref name="milparade.udm.ru" />
* '''SAKO 23&nbsp;mm/87''' – a navalized modernization used by the [[Finnish Navy]]. Variants are the '''23 M74''', the '''23 M77''', the '''23 M80''' and the '''23 M85''', last of which is a comprehensive rebuild with a new cradle and carriage. The guns can be removed from M85 carriage and replaced with six [[Mistral (missile)|Mistral]] surface-to-air missiles.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Kiiskinen |first1=Pekka |last2=Wahlman |first2=Pasi |title=Itsenäisen Suomen laivaston laivatykit 1918–2004 |trans-title=The naval guns of Finland 1918–2004 |year=2003|  publisher=Typomic Oy |location=Helsinki |language=fi |isbn=952-91-6807-1 |pages=121–133}}</ref>

=== China ===
* '''[[Type 85/YW 306]]''' – Reverse-engineered copy of the ZU-23-2, made by [[NORINCO]].<ref name="ReferenceB" /> Initially it was offered for export as the '''G-AA-01'''.<ref>International Defence Equipment Catalogue 1988–89, page II/27</ref> It is referred to as Type 85 gun by some sources.
** '''Giant Bow''' – Also known as '''Shengong''' (Deity Bow, 神弓). This is the name of an air-defense system, which consists of up to eight Type 85 guns and a battery command vehicle (BCV).<ref name="ReferenceB" />
** '''Giant Bow II''' a.k.a. '''Shengong-II''' – This is a more modern version of the Giant Bow and is offered for export since 2005. Apart from the 23&nbsp;mm guns, it also comprises [[TY-90]] missile launchers and a 3D radar.<ref name="ReferenceB" />
* '''Type 87''' – Upgraded version with twin 25&nbsp;mm guns for 25x183B ammunition such as the PG87. After a failed initial design, an improved design was developed in 1979 and ready for evaluation in 1984. The Type 87 gun was accepted for service in 1987. It has the same layout as the original model and consists of two automatic, recoil-operated cannons, a two-wheel cartridge, a Type 86 infrared tracking sight and two 40-round ammunition magazines. The Type 87 fires in either single shot or burst mode, with a cyclic rate of fire of 600~700 rounds/min and has a muzzle velocity of 1,050&nbsp;m/s.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type87towed25mm.asp |title=Archived copy |access-date=12 December 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071212223258/http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type87towed25mm.asp |archive-date=12 December 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
** '''[[Type 95 SPAAA|PGZ95]]''' – self-propelled version of the Type 87.

=== Iran ===
[[File:IRGC Aerospace Exhibition (04).jpg|thumb|One Mesbah-1 in 2019.]]
* '''[[Mesbah 1|Mesbah-1]]''' – Iranian-made air-defence and anti cruise missile system with four ZU-23 mounts. For the first time presented in 2010.
* '''ZU-23-6''' (unofficial designator) – Similar to the Mesbah-1 but with only 6 instead of 8 barrels. This was probably the pre-series model of the Mesbah-1.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.armyrecognition.com/iran_iranian_army_light_heavy_weapons_uk/zu-23-6_six_cannons_23mm_anti-aircraft_gun_technical_data_sheet_specifications_pictures_video.html|title=ZU-23-6 six cannons 23&nbsp;mm anti-aircraft gun technical data sheet specifications pictures video|last=Administrator|website=www.armyrecognition.com|access-date=6 May 2018|archive-date=16 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210916103017/https://www.armyrecognition.com/iran_iranian_army_light_heavy_weapons_uk/zu-23-6_six_cannons_23mm_anti-aircraft_gun_technical_data_sheet_specifications_pictures_video.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Vietnam ===

* '''23mm-2M''' (alternatively '''23-2M''') – an [[Israel|Israeli]]-[[Vietnam|Vietnamese]] co-developed [[Gun turret|gun turrets]] solution for the [[Vietnam Coast Guard]] [[Patrol boat|patrol vessels]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Israel hỗ trợ Hải quân Việt Nam |url=https://infonet.vietnamnet.vn/israel-ho-tro-hai-quan-viet-nam-123002.html |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=Infonet News |language=vietnamese}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-05-28 |title=Tàu Cảnh sát biển sẽ được trang bị pháo phòng không |url=https://www.baogiaothong.vn/tau-canh-sat-bien-se-duoc-trang-bi-phao-phong-khong-d75332.html |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=Báo giao thông |language=vietnamese}}</ref> Upgrades include a cabin for the gunner, electromechanic turn system & modern controlling systems as alternatives to the legacy pure-mechanical systems. [[Fire-control system|Ballistic computer & fire-control system]] are optional.
** '''23mm-2ML''' (or '''23-2ML''') – mostly identical to the above 23-2M except the addition of an [[Optoelectronics|optronics sensor]] and [[laser rangefinder]] for better targeting performance & accuracy as well as the potential integration of digital [[fire-control system]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ly Vy |title=Tinh hoa vũ khí Việt: Tàu Cảnh sát biển Việt Nam thế hệ mới được trang bị pháo đầy uy lực - Khác biệt vượt trội |url=https://bongda.tintuc.vn/tinh-hoa-vu-khi-viet-tau-canh-sat-bien-viet-nam-the-he-moi-duoc-trang-bi-phao-day-uy-luc-khac-biet-vuot-troi_post_1174134 |access-date=2023-02-13 |website=bongda.tintuc.vn |archive-date=13 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230213042707/https://bongda.tintuc.vn/tinh-hoa-vu-khi-viet-tau-canh-sat-bien-viet-nam-the-he-moi-duoc-trang-bi-phao-day-uy-luc-khac-biet-vuot-troi_post_1174134 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* Projects to ''"[[Self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon|mechanize]]"'' the '''ZU-23-2''' consist of the installation of the platform on [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[ZIL-131]], [[Russia|Russian]] [[KamAZ-43114|KamAZ-43118]] [[Six-wheel drive|6x6 trucks]] or the American [[M548|M548 tracked cargo carriers]] are chosen and commissioned by the [[Vietnam People's Army]]. Solutions for a [[Remote controlled weapon station|remotedly/automatically-controlled]] ZU-23-2 weapon station are also being developed.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Trần |first1=Ngọc Bình |last2=Vũ |first2=Quốc Huy |last3=Nguyễn |first3=Vũ |title=IMPROVING QUALITY ON LIGHT OF SIGHT STABILIZATION AND TARGET TRACKING SYSTEM FOR FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM OF ZU-23-2 |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/338670755 |website=[[ResearchGate]] |publisher=Academy of Military Science and Technology |publication-place=[[Vietnam]] |publication-date=10 July 2017 |via=Journal of Military Science and Technology}}</ref>

== General characteristics ==
[[File:Anti-aircraft gun ZU-23.png|thumb|A salvo from the ZU-23 anti-aircraft gun]]
* Overall dimensions in firing position
** Length: 4.57&nbsp;m (15&nbsp;ft)
** Width: 2.88&nbsp;m (9.44&nbsp;ft)
** Height: 1.22&nbsp;m (4&nbsp;ft)
* Weight: 0.95 tonnes (2,094&nbsp;lbs)
* Armament: two 2A14 Afanasyev-Yakushev [[23x152mm]] (.90 in) autocannons
* Barrel length: 2&nbsp;m (6.5&nbsp;ft)/ 87.3 calibers
* Muzzle velocity: 970&nbsp;m/s (3,182&nbsp;ft/s)
* Projectile weight: 186&nbsp;g (6.27&nbsp;oz)
* Rate of fire
** Cyclic: 2,000 rounds per minute
** Practical: 400 rounds per minute
* Effective range: 2-2.5&nbsp;km (1.24-1.55&nbsp;mi)
* Effective altitude: 1,500-2,000 m (4,921-6,562&nbsp;ft)
* Crew: 6

== Operators ==
[[File:ZU-23-2 Users.png|thumb|A map with users of the ZU-23-2 in blue and former users in red]]
* {{flag|Afghanistan}}
* {{flag|Albania}}
* {{flag|Algeria}} – 100{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=368}}
* {{flag|Angola}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=495}}
* {{flag|Armenia}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=200}}
* {{flag|Azerbaijan}}
* {{flag|Belarus}} – 128
* {{flag|Bosnia-Herzegovina}} – 29{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=95}}
* {{flag|Bulgaria}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=97}}
* {{flag|Burundi}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=500}}
* {{flag|Cambodia}}
* {{flag|Cape Verde}} – 12{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=502}}
* {{flag|Chad}}<ref name="Chad">{{cite magazine|title=Tchad: le désert des Tartares|first=Pierre|last=Darcourt|pages=16–19|magazine=La Gazette des armes|language=fr|url=http://fr.1001mags.com/parution/gazette-des-armes/numero-125-janvier-1984/page-16-17-texte-integral|issue=125|date=January 1984|access-date=18 October 2018|archive-date=19 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181019041136/http://fr.1001mags.com/parution/gazette-des-armes/numero-125-janvier-1984/page-16-17-texte-integral|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=504}}
* {{flag|China}} – Type 85, Type 87 (25*183 mmB, not 23*152&nbsp;mm)
* {{flag|Cuba}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=450}}
* {{flag|Djibouti}} – 5{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=509}}
* {{flag|Ecuador}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=454}} – Type 80<{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
* {{flag|Egypt}} – 220 ZU-23-2 and more than 81 self-propelled ''Sinai-23''.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|pp=373-375}}
* {{flag|Eritrea}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=511}}
* {{flag|Estonia}} – 198, some mounted on MAN 4520 6x6 trucks.
* {{flag|Ethiopia}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=512}}
* {{flag|Finland}} – 1,100
* {{flag|Gabon}} – 24{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=513}}
* {{flag|Greece}} - 503{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=121}}
* {{flag|Georgia}} – About 200, 40 mounted on [[MT-LB]], some on [[ZIL-131]] trucks and navy vessels. Applied to RWS.
** {{flag|South Ossetia}}<ref>{{cite web|author=SPUTNIK |url=http://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-south-ossetian-a-self-proclaimed-republic-in-western-georgia-armed-22788867.html?pv=1&stamp=2&imageid=6567CDA5-25AC-4FDB-9082-177E291C18C0&p=277317&n=0&orientation=0&pn=1&searchtype=0&IsFromSearch=1&srch=foo%3dbar%26st%3d0%26pn%3d1%26ps%3d100%26sortby%3d2%26resultview%3dsortbyPopular%26npgs%3d0%26qt%3dsouth%2520ossetian%26qt_raw%3dsouth%2520ossetian%26lic%3d3%26mr%3d0%26pr%3d0%26ot%3d0%26creative%3d%26ag%3d0%26hc%3d0%26pc%3d%26blackwhite%3d%26cutout%3d%26tbar%3d1%26et%3d0x000000000000000000000%26vp%3d0%26loc%3d0%26imgt%3d0%26dtfr%3d%26dtto%3d%26size%3d0xFF%26archive%3d1%26groupid%3d%26pseudoid%3d%26a%3d%26cdid%3d%26cdsrt%3d%26name%3d%26qn%3d%26apalib%3d0%26apalic%3d%26lightbox%3d%26gname%3d%26gtype%3d%26xstx%3d0%26simid%3d%26saveQry%3d%26editorial%3d1%26nu%3d%26t%3d%26edoptin%3d%26customgeoip%3d%26cap%3d1%26cbstore%3d1%26vd%3d0%26lb%3d%26fi%3d2%26edrf%3d
|title=South Ossetian a self proclaimed republic in Western Georgia Armed forces and volunteers Jawa region |publisher=alamy.com |date=2004-07-23 |access-date=2017-08-09}}</ref>
* {{flag|Ghana}} – 4{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=515}}
* {{flag|Guinea-Bissau}} – 18{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=518}}
* {{flag|India}} – 320 towed and more truck-mounted.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=210}}
* {{flag|Indonesia}} – 4 system ZUR-23-kg-I as part of the "Kobra" AD system for the [[TNI-AD]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/Indonesia-Indonesia.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=articles.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> + 18 Giant Bow twin 23 mm gun as part of the Giant Bow II AD system for the [[TNI-AD]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.adprconsult.com.my/indo-aerospace-defence.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=9 June 2012 |archive-date=14 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214203107/http://www.adprconsult.com.my/indo-aerospace-defence.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* {{flag|Iran}} - 1000 supplied from 1967 to 1970.<ref name=StateDept1972>{{cite web |url=https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1969-76ve04/d181  |title=RECENT TRENDS IN IRANIAN ARMS PROCUREMENT - Department of State |date=May 1972  |via=Office of the Historian |series=Foreign Relations of the U.S., 1969–1976, Volume E–4, Documents on Iran and Iraq, 1969–1972 }}</ref> 300.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|pp=377-379}}
* {{flag|Iraq}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=381}}
** {{flag|Kurdistan Region}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=564}}
* {{flaglist|Israel}} - 150,{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=384}} Captured from Arab Armies over the Arab-Israeli Conflict.
* {{flag|Ivory Coast}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=506}}
* {{PRK}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=304}}
* {{flag|Laos}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=310}}
* {{flag|Latvia}} – 3 ZU-23-2MR Wróbel II on Imanta and Viesturs ships.
* {{flag|Lebanon}} – 57,{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=390}} some mounted on M113 APCs{{citation needed|date=March 2019}}
* {{flag|Libya}} – Most mounted on light vehicles.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=392}}
* {{flag|Mauritania}} – 20{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=393}}
* {{flag|Morocco}} – 75-90{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=395}}
* {{flag|Moldova}} – 28,{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=210}} some mounted on BTR-D
** {{flag|Transnistria}}
* {{flag|Mali}}
* {{flag|Mongolia}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=315}}
* {{flag|Mozambique}} – 120{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=525}}
* {{flag|Myanmar}} – 380 Type 87
* {{flag|Namibia}} - Some South-African Zumlac.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=526}}
* {{flag|Nicaragua}} – 18{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=464}}
* {{flag|Nigeria}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=529}} 
* {{flag|Oman}} - 4{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=397}}
* {{flag|Peru}} – 80{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=468}}
* {{flag|Poland}} – 252 ZU-23 and 72 ZUR-23-2 series.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=145}} 
* {{flag|Russia}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=213}}
* {{flag|Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic}}<ref name="Sahara" />
* {{flag|Somalia}}<ref name="SAS 2012 10">{{cite book|url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2012.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120830000609/http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/publications/by-type/yearbook/small-arms-survey-2012.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 August 2012|chapter-url=http://www.smallarmssurvey.org/fileadmin/docs/A-Yearbook/2012/eng/Small-Arms-Survey-2012-Chapter-10-EN.pdf|chapter=Surveying the Battlefield: Illicit Arms In Afghanistan, Iraq, and Somalia|title=Small Arms Survey 2012: Moving Targets|publisher=[[Cambridge University Press]]|year=2012|author=Small Arms Survey|pages=339|isbn= 978-0-521-19714-4|author-link=Small Arms Survey}}</ref>
** {{flag|Puntland}}<ref>{{cite web|author=GAROWEONLINE |url=http://www.garoweonline.com/en/news/puntland/puntland-clashes-enter-second-day-in-somalia-whos-fighting-whom |title=Puntland clashes enter second day in Somalia: Who's fighting whom? |publisher=Garowe Online |date=2016-03-17 |access-date=2017-07-06}}</ref>
** {{flag|Somaliland}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=534}}
* {{flag|South Africa}} – ''Zumlac'' on an armoured SAMIL 100 heavy truck. Captured in Angola in the 1980s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-Land-Based-Air-Defence/Zumlac-South-Africa.html|title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS|website=www.janes.com|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> 36 in store.{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=536}}
* {{flag|South Sudan}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=537}}
* {{flag|Sudan}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=539}}
** {{flagicon image|Flag of SPLM-N.svg}} [[Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North]]<ref name="SAS Kordofan" />
* {{flag|Sri Lanka}}
* {{flag|Syria}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=405}}
** [[People's Defense Units]] (YPG)<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mitzer |first1=Stijn |last2=Oliemans |first2=Joost |title=Kurdish Armour: Inventorising YPG Equipment In Northern Syria |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2021/10/kurdish-armour-inventorising-ypg.html |website=Oryx Blog |date=29 October 2021}}</ref>
** {{flagicon|Syrian National Coalition}} [[Syrian opposition]]<ref>{{cite book |title=Military Balance 2019 |date=14 February 2017 |isbn=978-1857439007 |pages=370 |publisher=Taylor & Francis }}</ref>
* {{flag|Tanzania}} – 40{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=541}}
* {{flag|Turkmenistan}}
* {{flag|Uganda}} – 5
* {{flag|Ukraine}}{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|pp=228-230}}
* {{flag|United States}} – Testing only.
* {{flag|Venezuela}} – ~200{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=475}}
* {{flag|Vietnam}}
* {{flag|Yemen}}<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mitzer |first1=Stijn |last2=Oliemans |first2=Joost |title=The Oryx Handbook of Pre-war Yemeni Fighting Vehicles |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2015/09/pre-war-yemeni-fighting-vehicles_20.html |website=Oryx |date=20 September 2015}}</ref> – 200
* {{flag|Zimbabwe}} – 45{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=546}}

=== Non-state operators ===
* {{flagicon image|AQMI Flag asymmetric.svg}} [[Boko Haram]]{{sfn|The Military Balance 2017|p=564}}
* [[File:National Guard Forces Logo.svg|22px]] [[National Guard (Suwayda)]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Noir |first1=War |title=Weapons Used During Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham's Assaults in Idlib and Aleppo |url=https://www.militantwire.com/p/weapons-used-during-hayat-tahrir |website=www.militantwire.com |access-date=7 October 2025 |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Tigray Defense Forces]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mitzer |first1=Stijn |last2=Oliemans |first2=Joost |title=The Tigray Defence Forces - Documenting Its Heavy Weaponry |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2021/09/the-tigray-defence-forces-documenting.html |website=Oryx Blog |date=1 September 2021}}</ref>

=== Former operators ===
* {{flag|East Germany}}
* {{flag|Grenada}} – 12
* {{flag|Hungary}} 
* {{flag|Islamic State}}<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mitzer |first1=Stijn |last2=Oliemans |first2=Joost |title=Vehicles and equipment captured by the Islamic State inside Syria until November 2014 |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2014/11/vehicles-and-equipment-captured-by.html |website=Oryx Blog}}</ref>
* {{Flagicon image|Tamil Eelam Flag.svg|15px}} [[Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam]]
* {{flag|Panama}}
* {{flag|Rhodesia}} – 12 were captured from Soviet-supplied militants during the [[Rhodesian Bush War]].
* {{flag|Soviet Union}} – Passed on to successor states.

== See also ==
* [[List of Russian weaponry]]
* [[Zastava M55]]
* [[ZPU]]

== References ==
{{reflist|colwidth=30em}}

*{{cite book |editor1-last=Cullen |editor1-first=Tony |editor2-last=Foss |editor2-first=Christopher F. |title=Jane's Land-Based Air Defence 1992–93 |year=1992 |edition=5th |location=Coulsdon, UK |publisher=Jane's Data Division |isbn=0-7106-0979-5}}
* {{cite book
  | last = Koll
  | first = Christian
  | title = Soviet Cannon – A Comprehensive Study of Soviet Arms and Ammunition in Calibres 12.7mm to 57mm
  | publisher = Koll
  | year = 2009
  | location = Austria
  | url = http://www.russianammo.org/
  | isbn = 978-3-200-01445-9
  | page = 195
  | archive-date = 19 October 2009
  | access-date = 21 November 2009
  | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20091019161335/http://www.russianammo.org/
  | url-status = dead
  }}
* {{cite book|title=The Military Balance 2017|date=February 2017|isbn=9781857439007 |publisher=Routlegde|ref={{harvid|The Military Balance 2017}}|author=International Institute for Strategic Studies|author-link=International Institute for Strategic Studies}}
*Leigh Neville, ''Technicals: Non-Standard Tactical Vehicles from the Great Toyota War to modern Special Forces'', New Vanguard series 257, Osprey Publishing Ltd, Oxford 2018. {{ISBN|9781472822512}}

== External links ==
{{Commons}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20090426051945/http://www.kbptula.ru/eng/str/cannons/2a14.htm Russian producer]
* [http://www.enemyforces.com/artillery/zu23.htm Enemyforces.com] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080513024416/http://www.enemyforces.com/artillery/zu23.htm |date=13 May 2008 }}
* [http://www.gulflink.osd.mil/irfna/irfna_refs/n28en030/airdef.html Gulflink] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100124155705/http://www.gulflink.osd.mil/irfna/irfna_refs/n28en030/airdef.html |date=24 January 2010 }}
* [http://pvo.guns.ru/zu23/zu23_chechnya.htm Photo gallery at pvo.guns.ru]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071207190032/http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type85towed23mm.asp Type 85 Twin-23mm Towed Anti-Aircraft Artillery]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20071212223258/http://www.sinodefence.com/army/antiaircraft/type87towed25mm.asp Type 87 Twin-25mm Towed Anti-Aircraft Artillery]
* [http://www.evpu.sk/new/page.php?id=475 Slovak Field upgrade kits producer] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111118005024/http://www.evpu.sk/new/page.php?id=475 |date=18 November 2011 }}

{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}
{{SovArtyColdWar}}{{Russian SAM systems}}
[[Category:Autocannons of the Soviet Union]]
[[Category:Anti-aircraft guns of the Soviet Union]]
[[Category:Anti-aircraft guns of the Cold War]]
[[Category:Weapons and ammunition introduced in 1960]]
[[Category:23&nbsp;mm artillery]]