Description

The BMP-3 is the latest iteration of Russian BMP IFV vehicles. Designed during Soviet times it features an important redesign of the hull, chassis and turret.

Armament wise, the BMP-3 is one of the most heavily armed IFV in service. It's main gun is a 100mm low-velocity 2A70 rifled cannon which can shoot high explosive shells and 9M117 ATGMs; in addition it also mounts a dual feed 2A72 30mm auto-cannon with a rate of fire of 350 to 400 RPM. A coaxial 7.62mm PKT machine gun is also build in the turret.

Two other PKT machine guns are mounted in both sides at the front of the hull.

One of the curious facts of the BMP-3 is that, unlike most of the IFVs, its engine is mounted in the back of the vehicle.

The BMP-3M comes loaded with 100mm 3UOF19-1 HE-FRAG proximity fuse shells. These shells automatically detonate roughly 3m above ground for increased lethality against infantry and soft skinned targets.