BMP-2

The Russian BMP-2: A robust and versatile combat vehicle

The BMP-2, a Russian armored personnel carrier, has cemented its place as an essential element of the Russian armed forces since its introduction in the 1980s. Its presence in numerous conflicts around the world, from the mountains of Afghanistan to the deserts of Syria, has earned it a reputation as a reliable and effective main battle tank. But what makes the BMP-2 so special?

Development and use:

The BMP-2 was created in response to the weaknesses of its predecessor, the BMP-1 . The Soviet leadership recognized the need for an improved infantry fighting vehicle that offered both greater firepower and improved protection performance. Development of the BMP-2 began in the early 1970s, and in 1980 the vehicle was introduced into the Soviet Army.

Its operational history is marked by numerous conflicts in which the BMP-2 demonstrated its robustness and versatility. The Afghan War, in which he was deployed in the country's mountains and deserts, demonstrated his ability to negotiate difficult terrain.

The Chechen War, on the other hand, provided a severe test of its armor and firepower in urban combat. In the Syrian Civil War, the BMP-2 was used by all sides, being used by both the Syrian Army and various rebel factions.

In addition to its use in armies worldwide, the BMP-2 also found its way into the hands of various paramilitary organizations and even into the possession of some terrorist groups.

Technical features:

The BMP-2 is a formidable powerhouse armed with a 30mm automatic gun that offers a high rate of fire and can fire a variety of ammunition types, including fragmentation grenades, tank incendiary ammunition and even a special type of long-range ammunition designed for combat Helicopters can be used.

In addition to its 30mm gun, the BMP-2 has a 7.62mm machine gun that can be used both for direct fire on enemy infantry units and for engaging air targets. To combat armored targets, the BMP-2 can be equipped with an AT-4 anti-tank missile, which can use its explosive power to take out even heavily armored vehicles.

The BMP-2 can accommodate a crew of three men (commander, driver, gunner) and eight soldiers. The soldiers sit in a protected compartment in the rear of the vehicle and can exit through a hatch in the roof of the vehicle to go into battle.

The BMP-2 is powered by a diesel engine that allows a top speed of 65 km/h. The tank is equipped with a hydrodynamic transmission, which provides excellent maneuverability both off-road and on paved roads.

Strengths and weaknesses:

The BMP-2 is known for its robustness. Its construction and strong armor made of steel plates make it very resistant to shelling and explosives. The versatility allows it to be used in a variety of situations, from infantry support to reconnaissance. Its firepower is impressive, and the combination of 30mm cannon, machine gun and anti-tank missile makes it a formidable opponent.

But the BMP-2 also has its weaknesses. Its size and weight make it comparatively slow and cumbersome. Although the armor provides protection against small arms fire, it is not sufficient against modern anti-tank weapons. Modern anti-tank guided missiles can penetrate the BMP-2's armor with ease, making it vulnerable in modern warfare. The 30mm gun's firepower is limited compared to newer anti-tank systems and has limited use against modern tanks.

Modernization and further development:

The Russian armed forces have recognized that the BMP-2, once a proud symbol of Soviet military power, has become less important over the years. In the modern combat landscape, characterized by advanced anti-tank systems and precision guided missiles, the BMP-2 no longer met the requirements of the modern battlefield. The once impressive armor proved inadequate, the firepower limited and the electronics outdated. However, the Russians were determined to maintain the operational viability of this proven infantry fighting vehicle and so various modernization programs were launched.

One of the most notable projects was the development of the BMP-2M. This variant of the BMP-2 was intended to not only address the weaknesses of the original, but also make it a serious opponent on the modern battlefield. The heart of the modernization was improving firepower. The outdated 30mm gun was replaced with a more modern version that boasted a higher rate of fire, longer range and improved accuracy. In addition to the gun, the armament was expanded to include additional, more modern anti-tank missiles that were able to combat even the most modern tanks.

To better protect the BMP-2M from enemy fire, the armor was significantly strengthened. Additional armor plates strategically placed in key areas of the vehicle increased protection against kinetic projectiles and shrapnel. In addition to the reinforced armor, the BMP-2M's electronics were also modernized. New communications systems, improved targeting systems and a modern fire control system enabled soldiers in the BMP-2M to respond more quickly to changing situations and achieve more precise target acquisition.

However, the modernization of the BMP-2 to the BMP-2M was not limited to improving the technical aspects. The Russians also recognized that soldier training played a critical role in success in combat. Therefore, at the same time as the development of the BMP-2M, a comprehensive training program was launched to prepare soldiers for the vehicle's new capabilities. The soldiers were trained in the operation of the new weapons and electronic systems and learned how to optimally use the BMP-2M in modern combat operations.

The modernization of the BMP-2 into the BMP-2M was a step that provided the Russian armed forces with an important weapon. The BMP-2M was capable not only of fulfilling the traditional tasks of the BMP-2, but also of meeting the challenges of the modern battlefield. By modernizing the BMP-2, the Russians have shown that they are committed to modernizing their armed forces and meeting the challenges of the 21st century.

Other versions:

• BMP-2M: The version includes, among other things, a panoramic sight and includes four additional 9K135 anti-tank missiles.
• BMP-2D: Upgrade, with additional armor (side panels and base plate made of armored steel for driver and commander), not buoyant; ~14.8 t, 62 km/h (1981)
• BMP-2E: Version with 6 mm additional armor and chain skirts
• BMP-2K: Command tank with additional radio equipment (1× R124 radio, 2× R173 radio)