The newest Russian BMP-2M is preparing for "Extension of the buffer zone": what is known about the technique

However, since February 2022, the equipment has become a critical asset for the assault operations of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, supporting infantry and armored units in high -intensity hostilities. And in March 2025, the Russian State Corporation Rostech announced a significant improvement in BMP-2 capabilities, stating that its upgraded version, BMP-2M, can boast of an effective range of PTKR firing at 8 kilometers-twice as high as in the American Bradley.

This was made possible by the integration of the Battle Module with 30 mm automatic 2A42 gun, which is of some interest. The propagandists claim that this module increases the firing power of BMP-2M compared to standard weapons more than twice.

Among the benefits over the American analogue (refers to the 25mm M242 Bushmaster Bushmaster Bushmaster Broadley) is the main gun caliber, as well as the number of guided missiles (two in Bradley and four in the Russian BMP), which is allegedly possible "on the move. " However, with a more detailed comparison, the stated benefits of the Russian gun are not so obvious.

If 2A42 provides high fire power and versatility, then M242 Bushmaster is highly reliable and accuracy, which makes it effective in different combat conditions. According to Russian developers, it is at the expense of PURN "Cornet" and the improved optical-electronic BMP-2M system has the ability to fire on a range exceeding the capabilities of M2 Bradley. For comparison, the standard Tow pic has a maximum range of 3. 75 km, and the improved Tow-2b-up to 4. 2 km.

However, military analysts indicate a number of restrictions. The Cornet guide system requires constant visual contact with the target throughout the rocket flight, which makes the complex vulnerable to radio electronic suppression and smoke curtains. In addition, high range is useless in the conditions of city combat, where the distance of fire contact is reduced to several hundred meters.