Russia still surprises. Its army just got a new batch of combat vehicles
Kurganmashzavod, a Russian company involved in the production of armored vehicles among other things, confirms the dispatch of a new batch of BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles to the Russian army at the end of October. This move has drawn attention from the Ukrainian military service. BMP-3 vehicles are known to function efficiently in low temperatures, a significant attribute considering the impending winter. Here's a brief reminder of the capabilities of this modern infantry fighting vehicle that is serially produced in Russia.
11:39 AM EDT, November 2, 2023
Reports indicate another delivery of BMP-3 armored vehicles for the Russian army. Notably, the production increase in these vehicles by Kurganmashzavod has been reported. These vehicles are being used in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Interestingly, this rise is witnessed despite the sanctions imposed on Russia by the West and restrictions on access to Western technologies. However, it's worth mentioning that the reports of increased BMP-3 production could also be part of Russian information warfare, although the veracity can't be entirely dismissed.
Another batch of BMP-3s received by Russians
Earlier in May Kurganmashzavod informed of increased BMP-3 production. Insights from the Military Research and Analysis Team, based on Russian sources, suggested that the factory was operating 12 hours a day, six days a week. The possible shift to a three-shift work system is being contemplated. Michalik added that Kurganmashzavod had already boosted its workforce and ceased all secondary tasks unrelated to production.
The rise in BMP-3 production seems justified considering the significant role of armored vehicles in Ukraine, coupled with the number of vehicles the Russians have already lost in combats. Additionally, Kurganmashzavod emphasized that these machines can start effortlessly under any weather, including temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The forthcoming winter will pose a significant challenge to the military equipment used by both Russians and Ukrainians.
BMP-3 - a Russian infantry fighting vehicle
The BMP-3 is an infantry fighting vehicle, with its design based on a light, amphibious tank (Object 685). Its manufacturer describes it as a multipurpose solution, suited to serve as a fire support vehicle, an amphibious vehicle, or a ground and airborne target destroyer. The BMP-3 weighs roughly 38,000 lbs, spans over 23 ft in length, 11 ft in width, and stands 8 ft tall. It can attain a top speed of 43.5 mph on paved roads and moves at 6.2 mph in water. It is estimated to have a range of 373 miles.
The BMP-3 crew accommodates three individuals including the commander, the gunner, and the driver, with room for seven more infantry soldiers. As pointed out by the Army Recognition service, the hull and turret of the BMP-3 are made from welded aluminum. This armor is theoretically meant to serve as a shield against gunfire and artillery shell shrapnel. However, practical protection may be inadequate, a concern noticed by the Russians themselves. Many BMP-3's used in Ukraine are fortified with improvised protection materials, such as wooden logs.
The BMP-3's primary weaponry includes a low-pressure 100 mm gun capable of firing shells like the HE-FRAG 3UOF and anti-tank missiles 9K116 Bastion. The vehicle also comes equipped with a 30 mm 2A72 cannon and a coaxial 7.62 mm PKT machine gun. The 2A72 cannon can accurately hit ground targets at distances ranging from 0.93 to 1.24 miles and helicopters at distances up to 2.48 miles.
