Army 2019: remotely controlled combat module for T-15 Armata to undergo preliminary trials.

The remotely controlled combat module designed by Uralvagonzavod (UVZ) for the T-15 infantry fighting vehicle on Armata platform will undergo preliminary trials this year, the annual statement of the enterprise said. "The production of remotely-controlled combat module DUBM-57 (also Kinzhal) is nearing completion. Its automatic 57mm guns were test fired," it said.

T-15 Armata with remotely-controlled combat module DUBM-57, also designated as Kinzhal (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The module was demonstrated at Army-2018 forum on a T-15 Armata and triggered a major interest. "The module is prepared for preliminary trials scheduled in 2019," the statement said. The rate of fire of the gun exceeds 80 shots per minute. It can fire various munitions to destroy troops, armor and flying craft. Some shells fired by the 57mm gun can pierce a 120mm-thick armor at a distance of 1.5 km. The module is also armed with two antitank guided missiles.

The T-15 Armata with new armaments was jointly designed by UVZ enterprises, the Burevestnik institute and the Ural Design Bureau of Transport Machinery which merged the 57mm automatic module with the Armata platform.

The 55-ton T-15 is crewed by three men and can carry nine infantrymen. Its 1,500 hp diesel engine enables the vehicle to reach a top speed of 55 km/h and its fuel tank allows a 500km range.