Russian Armed Forces Acquire Upgraded BMP-2M Infantry Fighting Vehicles in Ukraine.

On September 6, 2023, Rostec, the Russian state-owned industrial conglomerate, revealed that the Russian Armed Forces have taken delivery of a new batch of upgraded BMP-2M infantry combat vehicles. The modernized BMP-2M is the work of engineers from the Tula Instrument Design Bureau (KBP), a subsidiary of Rostec.
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Upgraded BMP-2M Infantry Fighting Vehicles (Picture source: Rostec )

Rostec announced the delivery of several modernized BMP-2M vehicles on the Ukrainian front. The ability to replace equipment is a crucial factor in any conflict, and Russia seems to have geared its economy in this direction. Let's take a closer look at this Russian infantry combat vehicle.

The BMP-2M is an upgraded version of the BMP-2, designed and developed by Kurganmashzavod JSC. It can reach a maximum speed of 65 km/h on the road and 7 km/h in water. The vehicle can accommodate a crew of three, including a driver, gunner, and commander, and offers seating for up to seven soldiers. It has a combat weight of approximately 16,000 kg and is equipped with a KBM-2 air conditioning system.

The armament includes a 30mm 2A42 automatic cannon capable of firing 500 rounds per minute and a 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun with a rate of fire of 2,000 rounds per minute. The vehicle is also equipped with a multi-channel optical system for stabilized firing, a laser rangefinder, and a thermal imaging system for improved target detection. Russian military authorities assert that the modernized BMP-2M offers remarkable cost-effectiveness and that its combat capabilities have been significantly amplified. The vehicle's enhancements feature the Berezhok combat system, equipped with four 9M133 Kornet-E anti-tank guided missiles and a 30mm AGS-30 automatic grenade launcher.

The BMP-2M is powered by a six-cylinder, four-stroke UTD-23 supercharged, direct-injection diesel engine with a maximum power output of 360 hp. It has a cruising range of 600 km and can be air-transported by heavy military transport aircraft and helicopters.

The vehicle's armor is designed to withstand 12.7mm B-3232 bullets and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) missiles, offering enhanced protection. It also features an advanced target detection system that has a range of 5,000m during the day and 3,000m at night.

The production and repair of armored vehicles are undoubtedly a major issue in the conflict in Ukraine. The Russians have significantly increased their production, which remains a question mark for the Ukrainians who still rely heavily on international support. However, Ukraine is developing many indigenous systems, but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to produce them in large quantities.