Russian forces receive new BMP-3 and BMP-1AM infantry fighting vehicles.

In 2024, the Russian military forces welcomed the first deliveries of BMP-3 and BMP-1AM armored vehicles, supplied by the Kurgan and Rubtsovsk mechanical engineering plants, respectively.
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A Russian BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle. (Picture source: Rostec)

According to press releases from the companies, each BMP-3 is equipped with standard anti-cumulative grates and additional armor plates. It has been reported that Russia has lost about 376 BMP-3 vehicles, either destroyed or captured, during the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The BMP-3 is an infantry fighting vehicle designed and manufactured in Russia, known for its versatility and firepower. It is armed with a 100 mm gun, a 30 mm gun, and three 7.62 mm machine guns, allowing it to engage a variety of targets from enemy infantry to light armored vehicles. Its protection is provided by welded aluminum alloy armor, designed to withstand small arms caliber and shell splinters.

Weighing 18.7 tons, the BMP-3 can reach a maximum speed of 70 km/h on road and 10 km/h on water. It has a range of 600 km. In terms of equipment, the BMP-3 is equipped with a fire control system, night vision, and an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, which enhances its combat capabilities in various conditions and environments. It can carry a crew of three members, plus seven infantrymen, thus offering an effective combination of firepower, protection, and mobility for troop transport.

With dimensions of 7.14 meters in length, 3.23 meters in width, and 2.65 meters in height, the BMP-3 is a robust and compact vehicle, capable of navigating various terrains while providing effective fire support and protection to its occupants.

Furthermore, the Rubtsovsk mechanical engineering plant has announced the modernization of the BMP-1 to the BMP-1AM "Basurmanin" level, involving the repair or replacement of outdated components. The BMP-1AM "Basurmanin," a current Russian modernization of the Soviet-era BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, has seen about 47 units lost in the large-scale conflict with Ukraine. First unveiled in 2018, this armored vehicle received a new weapon system, electronics, and the UTD-20S1 power unit from the BMP-2.

The improved Russian infantry fighting vehicle by "Uralvagonzavod" is equipped with a combat module from the BTR-82A, including a 30mm automatic cannon, a 7.62mm PKTM machine gun, and the 902B "Tucha" system for deploying aerosol screens for visual camouflage on the battlefield. The combat vehicle's module is fitted with an advanced targeting system and thermal imaging. However, the ballistic and mine protection of the "Basurmanin" remains at the level of the original Soviet BMP-1.

The ability to replace losses incurred in combat is an essential element in a high-intensity conflict like the one in Ukraine, and therefore the delivery of new vehicles is not good news for the Ukrainian forces, however, the press releases do not specify the number of BMP-3s delivered to the front.