The 2S5 is capable of engaging targets at longer ranges and at a higher rate of fire than the more widely produced 2S3 Akatsiya 152 mm self-propelled gun, and is capable of firing nuclear projectiles.

Production of the 2S5 Giatsint-S (Hyacinth) started in 1976 along with the towed version the 2A36 Giatsint-B.

It uses a chassis modified from the SA-4 Krug surface-to-air missile system with good cross-country mobility and is powered by a V-59 diesel engine which develops 520 hp.

In addition to high explosives, the gun can also fire HEAT, cluster, smoke and nuclear projectiles.

[3] The 2S5 was introduced into service in 1978, replacing the 130 mm M46 field gun battalions in Soviet artillery brigades at the Army and Front level, and has also been known as the M1981 by the United States.