New Russian 8x8 armoured vehicle breaks cover at Army-2023 event
The BTR-22 displayed at Army-2023 was armed with a BPPU MB1 RWS integrating a 2A72 30mm autocannon and 7.62mm PKTM machine gun. (Photo: Author)
Russia’s VPK (Military Industrial Company) presented a new 8x8 platform during the Army-2023 show near Moscow earlier in August. While the vehicle was displayed under the designation BTR-82A (Advanced), Shephard has established that it is not an upgraded version of the venerable BTR-82 platform, but a completely new design.
VPK has developed the BTR-22 as a private venture with the aim of offering a cheaper and easier-to-manufacture alternative to the Bumerang 8x8 armoured personnel carrier.
According to company representatives, the experimental vehicle was designed as a VPK private initiative and is officially designated the BTR-22. Currently, several prototypes are undergoing Russian Army trials.
Despite speculation that appeared after one of the prototypes was spotted in June 2023, it is not a ‘mobilisation Bumerang’ or a competitor to VPK’s Bumerang programme.
The BTR-22 has a new armoured hull offering all-around ballistic protection from 12.7mm B-32 rounds and shell splinters. The V-shaped
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