Ukrainian forces capture Russia's most advanced vehicle as crew flees
2:52 PM EST, November 25, 2023
The Ukrainian military has seized an almost intact BMP-1AM Basurmanin infantry fighting vehicle, one of the latest equipment in the Russian army's arsenal. The vehicle's crew abandoned it after a failed attack attempt.
The Ukrainian army has a history of capturing distinctive Russian hardware. Last year, they managed to seize the 2S34 Chost self-propelled howitzer mortar and the 9S935 aiming system.
In a new development, a much larger piece of equipment was obtained by Ukrainian soldiers. The capture of the infantry fighting vehicle BMP-1AM Basurmanin was confirmed by the "North" Operational Command. The vehicle was almost undamaged.
Captured vehicle in nearly undamaged condition
As per the "North" Operational Command, the vehicle was deserted by its Russian crew following a botched attack. The command stated:
"The brigade's armored vehicle fleet has been boosted with a trophy infantry fighting vehicle. The aggressors left the vehicle in a nearly intact condition after their disastrous assault."
On previous occasions, the Ukrainian military has combatted BMP-1AM Basurmanin vehicles. This time, they were successful in capturing it. After necessary servicing, the vehicle will augment the 58th Motorized Brigade, named in honor of Ivan Vykhovsky in the Ukrainian Ground Forces.
Russia's most advanced vehicle
The BMP-1AM Basurmanin represents a Russian advancement of the BMP-1 vehicle, which was introduced to the battlefield in February of last year. In addition to the three-man crew, this model has the capacity to transport up to eight air assault soldiers.
Technical specifics of the vehicle's enhancements were shared by the "North" Operational Command. A remotely controlled combat station with a 30 mm 2A72 automatic cannon replaced the standard turret. The vehicle was fitted with the 9K115 Metis anti-tank missile system and the PKT machine gun. Further, the 902A/B Tucha system enabling the creation of smoke screens was installed by the designers.
The updated version of the vehicle also incorporates a new R-168-25U-2 radio station. In addition, the BMP-1AM Basurmanin's upgrade included enhancements to the driving system with new torsion springs and tracks.
