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Russia and Kalashnikov Test Combat Electric Motorcycles for Special Forces in Ukraine.
JSC Concern Kalashnikov, a renowned Russian defense manufacturer, has undertaken extensive testing of specialized motorcycles with various military units deployed in border regions of the ongoing war with Ukraine. These motorcycles, known as Combat Electric Motorcycles (BME), have demonstrated several operational advantages that are particularly critical in modern combat scenarios.
The BME motorcycles excel in high-speed mobility, agility, lightweight design, and near-silent operation. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)
The BME motorcycles excel in high-speed mobility, agility, lightweight design, and near-silent operation. These features are enhanced by their low thermal visibility, making them difficult to detect with heat-sensing devices. Additionally, their design allows them to evade drones and other detection systems, making them invaluable tools for tactical operations requiring stealth and rapid response.
Alan Lushnikov, General Director of JSC Concern Kalashnikov and a member of the Bureau of the Union of Machine Builders of Russia, emphasized the evolving requirements of modern warfare: "In today’s combat environments, the nature of military operations has changed significantly. Equipment once considered highly specialized or auxiliary is now in high demand and utilized to its full tactical and technical potential."
Kalashnikov is actively working to improve its current motorcycle models while also developing innovative designs tailored to meet the dynamic requirements of its clients. One of the most ambitious projects underway is the conceptualization of a hybrid motorcycle. This advanced model would combine internal combustion engines with electric power, enhancing versatility and operational endurance. Such a vehicle could prove critical in extended missions where conventional motorcycles might be limited by fuel or battery constraints.
Beyond their utility in conventional military operations, these motorcycles represent a broader trend in integrating cutting-edge technologies into battlefield equipment. Electric and hybrid systems offer numerous advantages, including reduced logistical footprints and the ability to operate in environments where traditional fuel supplies may be scarce or inaccessible. The near-silent operation of electric motorcycles also provides a significant advantage in reconnaissance and special operations, where discretion is paramount.
The introduction of such vehicles aligns with Kalashnikov’s commitment to equipping military forces with modern solutions designed to address the unique challenges of contemporary conflicts. These motorcycles are not only designed to enhance the mobility of forces but also to offer a technological edge in environments where speed, stealth, and adaptability are decisive factors.
This development underscores the growing importance of innovative military mobility solutions. Combat motorcycles like the BME are increasingly becoming integral components of tactical operations, illustrating the evolving dynamics of warfare and the critical role of technology in shaping modern battlefields. This marks a significant step in adapting to the demands of asymmetrical warfare, where mobility and stealth often determine the outcome of missions.