Russian SMD receives new BMP-3 IFVs
The Russian Southern Military District (SMD) 58th Combined-Arms Army motorised rifle formation has received the first batch of new BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles (IFV), the Russian Ministry of Defence announced on 9 April.
The first combat testing of the vehicle is set to take place at the Dalny combined-arms training ground.
Designed as a successor to the BMP-2, the BMP-3 is equipped with new chassis, engine, weapon system, hydro-mechanical transmission, and improved protection. The vehicle also has water-jet propellers to enable it to cross water obstacles at speeds of up to 10km/h.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![British Army's open plan draws diverse offerings for Land Rover replacement]()
British Army's open plan draws diverse offerings for Land Rover replacement
The UK Ministry of Defence has avoided being prescriptive in its search to replace the British Army’s Land Rover, meaning vehicle types being offered range from Land Rover Defender Wolf II and Humvee to the hybrid series Fering Pioneer. What does this mean for the procurement process?
-
![DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return]()
DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return
The introduction of Ajax vehicles into British Army service was stopped after operator health issues were reported during an exercise, but manufacturer General Dynamics Land Systems UK believes work over the past 10 months has dealt with the problems.
-
![Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions]()
Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions
Sweden, Croatia and France are pursuing different rocket artillery solutions as European armies seek greater reach, survivability and industrial resilience.
