Russia has handed over a batch of modernized BMD-2M vehicles equipped with anti-UAV systems to its airborne forces.
Rostec Corporation has delivered upgraded BMD-2M vehicles equipped with a Bereg turret and anti-UAV protection system, enhancing firepower and survivability for Russian airborne forces.
The Russian corporation Rostec has officially delivered a batch of modernized BMD-2M airborne infantry fighting vehicles to the military. This is a comprehensive upgrade of the original BMD-2, focusing on increased firepower and defensive capabilities against threats from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern battlefields.
The firepower of the Bereg turret.
The most significant improvement on the BMD-2M is the integration of the Bereg combat compartment. According to JSC NPO High Precision Systems (a subsidiary of Rostec), this new turret system not only extends the firing range but also diversifies the combat capabilities of airborne units.
The weapon systems fitted to the Bereg turret include:
- Shipunov 2A42 30mm automatic cannon:Comes with 300 rounds of ammunition.
- PKT 7.62mm machine gun:Equipped with 2,940 rounds of ammunition.
- 9M133 Kornet anti-tank missile:Two guided launchers help destroy heavily armored targets at long range.
In addition, the fire control system and aiming equipment have been comprehensively upgraded, allowing the vehicle to operate more accurately in a variety of environmental conditions.
Specialized maneuverability and protection against UAVs
In terms of operational capabilities, the BMD-2M maintains the superior technical characteristics of airborne landing vehicles with its full amphibious and parachute deployment capabilities. The vehicle uses a powerful diesel engine, reaching a maximum speed of 60 km/h on highways. The adjustable pneumatic-hydraulic suspension system helps the vehicle maintain stability and agility when moving across rough terrain.
Notably, to meet the combat realities in Ukraine, the BMD-2M vehicles in this delivery batch have been upgraded with specialized protection. This protective structure includes steel cages above the turret and mesh shields on both sides of the vehicle to prevent attacks from suicide drones (FPVs) or drone-dropped projectiles.
In addition to physical armor, Rostec has also integrated an as-yet-unidentified electronic warfare system. This system is expected to create jamming zones, neutralizing the control signals of enemy UAVs as they approach the combat vehicle.
The strategic role of the VDV forces.
The BMD-2M is currently the mainstay of the Russian Airborne Forces (VDV). The addition of these modernized combat vehicles with advanced drone defense capabilities is considered a crucial step as the force is directly involved in many important offensive operations. Improvements in firepower and electronic warfare will help increase the survivability of both the equipment and its crews against the increasing pressure from high-tech weapons.