TechKurganmashzavod gears up new military vehicles for Putin's frontline

Kurganmashzavod gears up new military vehicles for Putin's frontline

BMP-3 and BMD-4M during transport
BMP-3 and BMD-4M during transport
Images source: © X, @lll_Tatarinov_H
Mateusz Tomczak

9 May 2024 18:52

Kurganmashzavod, a Russian company that manufactures military equipment, has released a brief video showcasing the preparation of new transportation vehicles destined for Putin's army. The video features the infantry fighting vehicles BMP-3 and BMD-4M, whose capabilities are highlighted.

Located in Kurgan, within the Kurgan region, Kurganmashzavod's facilities have been earmarked for increased production following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. Support shipments for Russian army units involved in the Ukrainian conflict have been reported. The latest batch of BMP-3 and BMD-4M vehicles will soon be deployed to the front lines.

Delivery of BMP-3 and BMD-4M for the Russian army

The BMP-3, an infantry fighting vehicle that entered production in 1987, is among Kurganmashzavod's specialities. This equipment boasts a unique design developed from the lightweight, amphibious tank Object 685. However, this design decision has led to a significant drawback: the armour's relatively low durability. Moreover, the engine is situated at the rear, and the ammunition is not categorized by the crew, significantly increasing risk in the event of enemy fire.

The BMP-3 is better equipped in terms of armament. It features a 100mm calibre low-pressure gun, an anti-tank missile launcher, an automatic 30mm cannon, and 7.62mm machine guns. Weighing approximately 19,051 kg and stretching just over 7 metres, the BMP-3 is powered by a 500 HP engine, reaching top speeds of about 69 km/h on land and about 10 km/h in water.

New Russian vehicles

The BMD-4M represents a more recent model. The initial prototype of this infantry (also referred to as an airborne combat vehicle) surfaced in 2008, though production commenced in 2015.

Like the BMP-3, the BMD-4M features tracked traction and a 500 HP engine. It is lighter, weighing approximately 13,154 kg to facilitate parachute drops. Yet, it matches the BMP-3's maximum speed capabilities of about 69 km/h on land and about 10 km/h in water. The armament includes a 2A70 100mm calibre launcher, an automatic 30mm cannon, and a 7.62mm machine gun.