Breaking News
Russia Delivers New Batch of BTR-MDM Armored Personnel Carriers to its Armed Forces in Ukraine.
On October 28, 2024, Rostec announced the delivery of BTR-MDM Rakushka-M airborne armored personnel carriers to Russian forces, which have most likely been deployed to Ukraine, where the need for armored vehicles remains high.
The BTR-MDM is an armored personnel carrier developed and manufactured in Russia. (Picture source: Rostec)
The Russian defense industry has taken another step forward with Rostec’s recent delivery of BTR-MDM Rakushka-M armored personnel carriers to the Russian Armed Forces in Ukraine. This delivery, completed as part of the 2024 national defense order, underscores the ongoing modernization efforts within Russian airborne units. High-Precision Systems, a subsidiary of the Rostec State Corporation, managed the production and testing phases, with the equipment successfully undergoing numerous mobility tests before formal acceptance by military representatives.
Outfitted with electronic warfare and advanced defense systems, the BTR-MDM Rakushka-M includes several enhancements designed to address the evolving nature of modern combat. Each vehicle is now equipped with drone suppression systems that disrupt hostile UAV control lines, along with upper hemisphere protection kits to counter aerial threats. The “Nakidka” camouflage technology, integrated for the first time on this model, reduces thermal and radar visibility, providing an added level of concealment. Night vision devices have also been installed to facilitate navigation in low-light conditions, thereby enhancing the vehicle’s operational capabilities in all-weather, all-terrain scenarios.
The BTR-MDM, also known as the Rakushka-M, is an armored personnel carrier developed and manufactured in Russia to meet the needs of airborne units. This versatile vehicle is designed to transport up to 13 soldiers in addition to its two crew members, providing both mobility and protection in diverse combat situations. Measuring 6.1 meters in length, 3.1 meters in width, and 2.5 meters in height, the BTR-MDM is constructed for rugged terrain while maintaining air transport compatibility.
The Rakushka-M is equipped with two 7.62 mm PKTM machine guns, offering effective close-defense capabilities for the transported troops. Although its armor is made of aluminum, it protects small arms fire and shell fragments, offering reasonable resilience while maintaining a relatively light weight of 13,200 kg. This aluminum structure aims to balance mobility and protection, allowing the vehicle to remain agile without compromising the safety of its occupants.
In terms of mobility, the BTR-MDM boasts a top speed of 70 km/h, making it effective for rapid maneuvers and urgent deployments. It also has a range of 500 km, enabling long-distance operations without frequent refueling. Complementing these features, the BTR-MDM is equipped with an NBC (nuclear, biological, and chemical) protection system, a fire detection and suppression system, and an engine heating system, ensuring its ability to operate in extreme environments.
Designed specifically for airborne assault units, the BTR-MDM incorporates technical solutions that cater to the need for rapid mobility and soldier protection. This vehicle, developed exclusively in Russia and primarily used by Russian Armed Forces, plays a crucial role in their airborne armored transport capabilities.
The BTR-MDM Rakushka-M is notable as the first armored vehicle developed in post-Soviet Russia capable of being deployed from an aircraft with its crew onboard. This unique capability reinforces its role within Russian airborne forces, highlighting Rostec’s commitment to enhancing the operational flexibility and reach of the Russian military.