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Russian BMD-4M IFV to Get 30mm Programmable Airburst Cannon Upgrade for Anti-Drone Defense.
As drones have become central actors on the Ukrainian battlefield—used for precision strikes, reconnaissance missions, and harassment of enemy positions—Russia is continuing to modernize its BMD-4M airborne infantry fighting vehicle, as reported by Rostec on Telegram Channel. Developed by the High-Precision Systems holding company under the state-owned Rostec Corporation, this fourth-generation amphibious vehicle, designed to support Russia’s airborne forces on the front lines, is now set to receive a new 30mm automatic cannon specifically designed to counter drones using programmable airburst munitions.
It now features additional protection systems against first-person view (FPV) drone attacks, including rooftop anti-drone cages commonly referred to as "barbecue grills," as well as electronic warfare systems designed to jam drone control signals (Picture source: Rostec)
This new weapon will allow the BMD-4M to engage hostile UAVs at varying altitudes and distances, enhancing close-range protection for airborne units conducting assault, encirclement, or sabotage operations. In parallel, the main 100mm gun—capable of firing both conventional shells and guided missiles—will also be adapted to use airburst munitions, expanding the vehicle’s engagement range to include aerial and lightly armored targets. These dual upgrades reflect a broader trend of accelerated adaptation to the operational conditions in Ukraine, where Russian units are facing an adversary equipped with a diverse array of aerial systems supported by more than fifty countries, including several major military powers, according to Russian sources.
The BMD-4M is the backbone of Russia’s airborne forces. It is a 14-ton tracked vehicle designed for parachute deployment from military transport aircraft such as the Il-76MD-90A. Combining firepower, tactical mobility, and amphibious capabilities, it is based on a lightened platform derived from the BMP-3, tailored for airborne operations. Powered by a 500 hp UTD-29 diesel engine, it can reach speeds of 70 km/h on roads and 10 km/h in water, with a range of 500 km. The vehicle features an adjustable hydropneumatic suspension that provides a ground clearance ranging from 130 to 530 mm, enabling it to traverse difficult terrain such as the soft black earth (chernozem) found in many regions of Ukraine, where wheeled vehicles often become bogged down. Its two rear-mounted water jets allow the BMD-4M to cross rivers without prior preparation—an asset for creating unexpected breakthroughs.
The main armament is housed in a two-man turret featuring a 2A70 100mm gun with an autoloader capable of firing both conventional rounds and 9M117M1 Arkan laser-guided missiles with tandem warheads. These munitions are effective at ranges of up to 5,500 meters against tanks and up to 7,000 meters against entrenched personnel. The coaxial 30mm 2A72 cannon enhances engagement capabilities against lighter and mobile targets, including helicopters and drones, up to 4,000 meters. A 7.62mm PKT machine gun completes the armament. The fire control system is fully computerized and includes a day/night sight for the gunner, a panoramic sight for the commander, a ballistic computer, automatic target tracking, and a tactical data interface for engaging unobserved targets.
The BMD-4M is operated by a crew of three—commander, gunner, and driver—and can transport up to six paratroopers in the rear compartment. Its hull and turret are made of welded aluminum armor, offering frontal protection against 30mm rounds and side protection against 7.62mm fire and shell fragments. The vehicle is also equipped with a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection system, an automatic fire detection and suppression system, engine heating for cold-weather operations, and day/night observation devices for the crew.
These characteristics make the BMD-4M an effective platform for offensive support. Its ability to fire from covered positions, to support mobile assaults, and to traverse complex terrain has led to its deployment in several recent operations. Russian airborne forces emphasize its maneuverability, especially in areas where wheeled vehicles face difficulties. Its light weight and off-road capabilities allow it to operate efficiently in muddy or unstable environments.
The main armament is housed in a two-man turret featuring a 2A70 100mm gun with an autoloader capable of firing both conventional rounds and 9M117M1 Arkan laser-guided missiles with tandem warheads (Picture source: Vitaly V. Kuzmin)
Based on operational feedback from Ukraine, several enhancements have been integrated into the vehicle. It now features additional protection systems against first-person view (FPV) drone attacks, including rooftop anti-drone cages commonly referred to as "barbecue grills," as well as electronic warfare systems designed to jam drone control signals. Research is ongoing to integrate active protection systems capable of detecting incoming threats using onboard radar and neutralizing them with specialized countermeasures. Although these systems are not yet operational on light armored vehicles, development continues toward a cost-effective and technically feasible solution.
In addition to these upgrades, the BMD-4M has undergone structural modifications prompted by frontline experience. Critical components have been reinforced, including a new track tensioning system inspired by that of the BMP-3 to prevent track shedding under certain conditions. Upcoming upgrades include an automatic transmission and a set of perimeter surveillance cameras to improve crew situational awareness and vehicle security.
Looking ahead, Russian defense manufacturers are exploring a convergence between infantry fighting vehicles and airborne combat vehicles. The goal is to develop a unified platform capable of fulfilling the functions of both while retaining airdrop capability. This concept is supported by the operational history of the BMP-2, which has been successfully airdropped 38 times in past missions.
The BMD-4M is also subject to a structured export strategy. Rosoboronexport, the state arms export agency under Rostec, is offering the platform to partner nations interested in equipping their airborne forces with combat-proven systems. The package includes support for organizing and equipping national airborne formations. The BMD-4M is certified for airlift and airdrop from the Il-76MD-90A (E), which can transport up to three vehicles per sortie using a parachute-free deployment system. This rapid deployment capability was showcased internationally at the Dubai Airshow 2023 and the World Defense Show 2024, drawing attention from multiple prospective buyers.
The BMD-4M represents a continuously evolving combat system shaped by the requirements of modern warfare. Its modernization focuses on the integration of anti-drone technologies, ongoing improvements to protection and mobility, and gradual adaptation to asymmetric threats. By combining firepower, amphibious maneuverability, airborne deployment, and tactical flexibility, Russia seeks to equip its airborne forces with a strategic asset capable of addressing current operational challenges while remaining relevant in the international defense market.