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Vietnam Unveils Locally Made XCB01 Modernized Version of Soviet BMP-1 Infantry Fighting Vehicle.
The XCB-01 infantry fighting vehicle, a product developed and manufactured in Vietnam, was showcased at the Vietnam Defense Exhibition 2024, a major event in the defense industry, taking place from 19 to 22 december. The XCB-01 represents an advancement in Vietnam’s defense capabilities, combining cutting-edge technical features with a design tailored to meet modern strategic needs. This is the first time that the XCB-01 has been unveiled at the show.
The Vietnamese XCB-01 Infantry Fighting Vehicle at DSE 2024. (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The Vietnamese XCB-01, developed with more recent technologies, surpasses the BMP-1 in several areas. The XCB-01 is equipped with a more powerful engine, offering better mobility thanks to its 300 horsepower, compared to the BMP-1’s engine, which, while robust, performs less well on certain types of terrain. The XCB-01 also benefits from an aquatic propulsion system, which was not a feature of the BMP-1, allowing it to move at a speed of 7 km/h in water, offering greater versatility in amphibious environments. In terms of protection, the XCB-01 is better armed and better protected, with modern defense systems such as chemical, biological, and radiological protection, making it more suited to contemporary threats, where the BMP-1 remains relatively vulnerable.
The XCB-01 also integrates improvements in weaponry and fire control systems. Its 73mm 2A28 cannon is similar to that of the BMP-1, but it is paired with a missile launcher and a range of more advanced defense systems, such as laser detection systems and protection against chemical and biological attacks. The BMP-1, while functional, lacks such protection equipment, and its detection and defense capabilities are therefore more limited. The XCB-01’s communication system is also more modern, with a VRU12/S radio and a satellite phone, ensuring better connectivity, which is essential in a modern combat environment where rapid and reliable communication is crucial.
The XCB-01 is designed to transport a team of three members: the commander, the gunner, and the driver. It can carry up to eight soldiers, with a total combat weight of 14.85 tons. Its dimensions are 6.95 meters in length, 3.25 meters in width, and 2.50 meters in height. The ground clearance is 0.37 meters, allowing it to operate across various terrains. In terms of engine, the XCB-01 is equipped with a UTD-20 diesel engine, delivering 300 horsepower.
One of the notable features of this vehicle is its transmission system, which includes a main clutch, a planetary transmission mechanism, and a differential with a worm gear. The vehicle is also equipped with a water propulsion system for aquatic movement, with a maximum speed of 7 km/h in water and 65 km/h on land.
The XCB-01 has sophisticated weapon and fire control systems, including a 73mm smoothbore 2A28 cannon with a 40-shell ammunition capacity. It is also equipped with a B72 missile launcher, an anti-tank complex, and a series of chemical, biological, and radiological protection devices to safeguard its occupants in hostile environments.
In terms of protection, the vehicle is equipped with an automatic fire extinguishing system, as well as a smoke-generating system for camouflage on the battlefield. A laser detection system and protection against chemical and biological attacks further enhance its security in combat situations.
Finally, the XCB-01 features a robust communication system, including a VRU12/S radio with 50W and a VIS satellite phone, ensuring connectivity even in the most remote environments.
This presentation at DSE 2024 demonstrates Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities while highlighting the progress made in the design of armored vehicles and defense systems. The XCB-01 aligns with the growing trend of modern infantry fighting vehicles, offering increased protection for troops while ensuring flexible deployment capabilities and resilience in the face of contemporary battlefield challenges. Vietnam seems to have recognized that locally produced military vehicles remain a key factor in ensuring autonomy.