Russians capture US vehicle: they will examine it
Russian soldiers have seized a Ukrainian M2A2 ODS Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. The damaged model, marked with 2022 (likely the repair date), was towed from the Avdiivka area and displayed on Russian TV by Pierwyj Kanał. The absence of additional armor units and weaponry suggests the Russians are thoroughly examining key components of the machinery.
8:09 AM EST, December 8, 2023
The Bradley, now in Russian possession, shows significant battle damage. It has sustained numerous hits - both direct and from shrapnel. However, the engine and major electronic systems remain functional, making it a considerable capture.
The M2A2 ODS Bradley is a lifesaving vehicle
The American M2A2 ODS Bradley combat vehicle is a formidable machine, weighing approximately 60,000 pounds. It's powered by a Cummins VTA-903T diesel engine that produces 600 HP, allowing it to reach speeds of about 37 mph. The vehicle's front is protected by reinforced reactive armor, designed to withstand fire from 30 mm automatic guns and RPG-7 anti-tank grenade launchers.
The Bradley's primary weapon is the M242 Bushmaster chain cannon, with a 25 mm caliber firing at 200 rpm. Additionally, it's equipped with a universal M240C machine gun of 7.62 mm caliber (stocked with 2340 rounds). For more heavily armored targets, the vehicle carries two BMG-71F (TOW-2B) anti-tank missiles, which have a range of up to 2.8 miles and can penetrate about 35 inches of RHA. These are effective even against main tanks. The vehicle is also fitted with advanced thermal imaging and a laser rangefinder.
The Bradley has saved the lives of Ukrainians on several occasions. One instance was when a Russian tank was hit, sparking a dramatic ammunition depot explosion, in the summer of 2023. However, the M2A2 vehicles have proven defenseless against Russian BM-21 Grad launchers (one hit resulting in a quickly extinguished fire and minor injuries to the crew) or T-72 tanks.
