Russians deploy captured M2A2 Bradley for the first time
As reported by Forbes and others, one of the M2A2 Bradley fighting vehicles captured by the Russians has been incorporated into their army. This marks the first such occurrence since the beginning of the war. The M2A2 Bradley, known for its outstanding features, is considered one of the best NATO vehicles supplied to Ukraine by its allies.
3:57 PM EST, November 18, 2024
The United States has already delivered over 300 M2A2 Bradley units to Ukraine, which have been utilized by the Ukrainian army even on the most challenging front lines. These vehicles are praised for their high durability and significant offensive capabilities, allowing them to effectively compete even with tanks. They have contributed to many successful encounters for the Ukrainians, though naturally, there have been losses. The Russians have destroyed several dozen M2A2 Bradleys. However, they have managed to capture a few of these vehicles.
M2A2 Bradley in Russian service
According to Forbes, since the beginning of the war, the Russians have captured at least five M2A2 Bradleys. These were treated similarly to other captured NATO equipment—ending up in Russia as war trophies to be analyzed by local experts or displayed in propaganda military parades.
However, a video has recently surfaced online showing the Russians using one of the five captured Bradleys. A slightly modified M2A2 Bradley, with elements intended to increase protection against drones, is reported to be in service with the 30th Motorized Rifle Brigade of the Russian army.
It is unclear how the Russians intend to use this trophy. Ukrainian soldiers underwent extensive training in NATO countries, equipping them to utilize the capabilities of the M2A2 Bradley fully. There may also be doubts about the technical condition of the captured vehicle (it is possible it has minor damages that may only become apparent in potential combat) and how the Russians plan to arm it.
Tank killer from the USA
Forbes suggests that the Russians might eventually use the M2A2 Bradley as an evacuation vehicle, where, due to its armor, it would perform significantly better than the old Soviet-era BMPs. The M2A2 Bradley is considered one of the world's most durable infantry fighting vehicles. It boasts armor made of steel, aluminum, composite materials, a spall liner, and an efficient fire extinguishing system. Reports confirm that the M2A2 Bradley survived encounters with Russian T-72 tanks, among other challenges.
Regarding its armament, this American-made vehicle features a 25 mm M242 Bushmaster cannon, a 7.62 mm machine gun, and an anti-tank guided missile launcher. It also has a smoke grenade launcher. The Bradley is powered by an engine with either 500 hp or 600 hp (depending on the production year), allowing it to reach speeds over 40 mph.
"The Bradley is not a tank, but it can be a tank killer," wrote retired U.S. Army General Mark Hertling on the X platform, who commanded this type of vehicle during Operation Desert Storm.
