BMP-3 machine: RF's testing BT-3F armored personnel carrier (photo) started in the Russian Federation

Extend: Holding "High-Aprising Complexes" has announced the beginning of state tests of the latest Russian tracked bronetter BT-3F, developed on the basis of BMP-3 infantry fighting machine. The tests take place in different climatic zones and include checking the running and firing characteristics of the machine - both on land and water. This is stated in the official message dated May 20 of the State Corporation "Rostekh". BT-3F was first introduced to the public in 2016 at the Army Forum.

The armor differs from its basic model not only by internal layout, but also by extended landing capabilities. The central location of the landing compartment, the beveled doors and the fuel tanks brought into the nasal part made it possible to increase the capacity of the armored personnel carrier to 12 fighters in full equipment. The crew remained the same - two people. The landing seat is made in the energy absorbing design, which increases safety while driving on the road.

The reservation provides circular protection against a caliber of 14. 5 mm, released from the KPVT machine gun from a distance of up to 200 meters. In the base configuration, the machine is equipped with a remote control module with a 12. 7 mm machine gun, also provides for the possibility of installing automatic grenade launchers of AG-17A or AGS-40. In addition, there are two smaller machine guns and a coupling device for towing trailers.

Special mention deserves the question of the survivability of the machine: despite the removal of 100mm gun and related ammunition, the level of protection of BT-3F is still raising the issue. It is also unknown whether the installation of the hinged armor is expected to increase the level of protection, but at the same time may adversely affect the buoyancy of the armored personnel carrier.