Russian Yenisei becomes third secret armored train deployed on Ukrainian front

According to a Twitter video by oscar198o on September 1, 2023, the Russian Army deployed a previously undisclosed armored train known as the "Yenisei" on the Ukrainian front. This train serves the purposes of technical reconnaissance and material transportation, alongside the previously mentioned Baikal and Volga trains. This information validates the existence of more than five armored trains in Russia, contrary to previous beliefs. Notably, the details presented in this video align with existing portrayals of Russian armored trains, including their armament, which comprises ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft gun systems and at least one BMP-2 IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) mounted on a flatbed railway car.
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Russian secret Yenisei becomes the third armored train deployed on the Ukrainian Frontline (Picture source Twitter and Russian social media)

This development follows reports from August 8, 2023, regarding the deployment of the Volga armored train, and another on August 25, 2023, about the deployment of the Baikal armored train. The latest information available on Russian social media confirms the presence and operation of this sixth armored train, named "Yenisei," in Ukraine. It is also involved in demining railway networks and escorting logistical trains to the front. Responsibility for this train appears to rest with the Russian Central Military District.

Russian armored trains serve a versatile role within the Russian armed forces, encompassing combat protection, escort responsibilities, and engineering reconnaissance. Their functions are diverse and comprehensive.

Typically, an armored train consists of a series of platforms, with the initial one serving as a "cover platform." Its primary function is to advance ahead of the main train, acting as a precautionary measure against potential encounters with landmines to ensure safe train movement. Crew members continuously inspect railway tracks and the surrounding terrain for signs of explosive devices. Specially trained sappers assess these situations and decide whether to disarm the threat or conduct a controlled detonation.

Reconnaissance efforts heavily rely on drone technology, which is deployed ahead of the train to survey the route, identify potential obstacles, and ensure the train's safe passage.

Maintenance and repair teams are integral to the train's operations. Logistic requirements, including spare parts, are fulfilled by a designated wagon named the "Kapterka," which transports essential supplies for maintenance, repairs, and operational continuity. Locomotives located at both ends of the train can be used for controlled detonation in the event of contact with explosive devices.

Effective coordination and communication are vital for the train's functionality. This is facilitated by a platform housing a mobile radio station mounted on a ZIL-131 6x6 truck, ensuring seamless interaction among the crew and with other units. Observers stationed at each end of the train guide locomotive operators to ensure precise movements and overall operational coordination. The primary mission of the armored train personnel is to protect railway tracks, infrastructure, and repair teams from acts of sabotage. This includes track protection and the prevention of attacks on essential railway assets.

To ensure comprehensive safety, the locomotive is centrally positioned, with the driver guided by an observer. The train's carriage walls are reinforced with 20-millimeter steel and supplemented by sandbags behind wooden panels. To counter mine explosions, the train incorporates platforms loaded with ballast materials like sand-filled bags, rails, and sleepers. These platforms serve as protection against the effects of mines. Additionally, a jamming platform equipped with the Kamysh system disrupts radio-controlled explosive devices within a 20-meter radius.

The crew of the Yenisei armored train includes heavily armed soldiers to ensure the train's safety (Picture source Zvezdanews)

The train's trained personnel have access to a diverse array of weaponry to ensure the armored train's security. Among the armaments at their disposal are various equipment, including 23mm anti-aircraft guns, automatic grenade launchers, assault rifles, and heavy machine guns. These resources are employed to engage both aerial and ground-based targets. In addition to defensive capabilities, the train is equipped with weaponry designed to counter sabotage and reconnaissance activities. This includes anti-diversion and anti-reconnaissance measures, as well as anti-aircraft armaments to effectively respond to enemy attacks.

The train comprises several platforms, each equipped with customized armaments to address various threats. At its core is an armored box constructed from durable steel sheets, serving as both a compartment for weaponry and the command center for operational activities. Firing openings on the sides enable personnel to engage targets with their personal firearms from within the protected interior.

Two rotating turrets, mounted on the armored box, are armed with AGS-17 automatic grenade launchers featuring VOG-17 30mm ammunition and large-caliber machine guns. These turrets provide a firing arc of approximately 160 degrees, enhancing the train's defensive capabilities.

Two platforms are notably equipped with 23mm ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft autocannons, capable of engaging both aerial and ground threats due to their rapid cyclic rate of fire, which is approximately 2,000 rounds per minute. Other platforms showcase BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles (potentially replaced by T-62 tanks) on flatbed railway cars, providing mobile firepower to effectively engage ground-based targets.

The BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) delivers substantial firepower through its onboard weapons systems, including a stabilized 30 mm cannon 2A42 and a 7.62 mm PKT coaxial machine gun positioned to the left of the main armament, loaded with 2,000 rounds. Smoke grenade dischargers, arranged in banks of three, are situated on each side of the turret. Furthermore, the BMP-2 can create a smokescreen by introducing diesel fuel into the exhaust outlet on the right side of the hull. The turret roof houses an AT-4 Spigot or AT-5 Spandrel ATGMs launcher (Anti-Tank Guided Missiles) with a maximum range of 4,000 meters.