Ukrainian Border Guards strengthen combat capabilities with Belgian-made AIFV-B-C25 IFVs.

On December 2, 2024, the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGS) has received Belgian-made AIFV-B-C25 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), manufactured by the Dutch company DAF, for use in its operations during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Recent training sessions with these vehicles were highlighted by the SBGS on its official social media platform, showcasing personnel practicing with the vehicles’ Oerlikon KBA B02 25mm automatic cannon.
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The Oerlikon KBA B02 25mm automatic cannon, capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to two kilometers, uses the same ammunition as other infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) in service with Ukraine, including the Bradley. (Picture source: SBGS)

According to the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGS), the weapon can engage targets at distances up to one kilometer with ease and is capable of effective operation at ranges up to two kilometers. The cannon uses NATO-standard 25×137mm shells, which are also utilized in other Ukrainian IFVs, including the Bradley.

The AIFV-B-C25’s 25mm cannon is supported by a twin 7.62mm FN MAG machine gun. While primarily designed for engaging lightly armored vehicles and infantry, the cannon can potentially damage heavier armored targets such as tanks under specific conditions. The turret system is equipped with both day and night sights for targeting. However, maintenance of the vehicles reportedly poses challenges for the crews, which underscores the importance of continued technical training.

The AIFV-B-C25 is built on the AIFV chassis, which is an evolution of the American M113A1 armored personnel carrier. This Belgian version is equipped with an aluminum hull and spaced laminate steel appliqué armor on the front and sides, providing protection against small arms fire and shell fragments. The vehicle has a crew of three—driver, commander, and gunner—and can carry seven infantry troops in the rear compartment, accessible through a power-operated ramp. Powered by a Detroit Diesel Allison 6V-53T engine delivering 267 horsepower, the vehicle can reach a maximum speed of 61 km/h and has an operational range of 490 kilometers.

A distinguishing feature of the Belgian version compared to the Dutch version is the placement of smoke grenade launchers. On the Belgian AIFV-B-C25, the launchers are mounted on the turret sides, while Dutch variants have them on the upper frontal part of the vehicle. These IFVs were part of a 1979 order by Belgium for 514 units, which included adaptations for local production. Surplus vehicles from Belgium have previously been sold to countries such as Chile, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Belgium has since replaced these IFVs with wheeled MOWAG Piranha III vehicles.

The Oerlikon KBA B02 cannon was developed for multipurpose use, originally based on the TRW-6425 design created during the U.S. Army’s Bushmaster program. This cannon features a dual-feed system that enables the operator to switch between ammunition types rapidly. It offers a rate of fire ranging from 175 rounds per minute in rapid single-shot mode to 600 rounds per minute in full automatic mode. The weapon is used in a variety of applications, including land vehicles and naval mounts, across several countries.

The AIFV-B-C25 IFVs are an example of how surplus military equipment has been integrated into Ukraine’s defense capabilities. These vehicles add to the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ existing fleet, which includes other AIFV variants donated by European countries. The SBGS has indicated that these additions are intended to strengthen operational readiness in border protection and other security operations. This development reflects ongoing international military assistance to Ukraine in response to the conflict.