Sprut-SDM1 to undergo Black Sea firing trials
The Sprut-SDM1 amphibious light tank. (Photo: Rostec.)
During the first stage of trials on the Black Sea, the vehicle completed navigation capability tests and demonstrated its ability to be transported via large landing craft.
The Sprut-SDM1 amphibious tank will soon undergo firing trials using its 125mm anti-tank gun while afloat in conditions up to sea state three.
Rostec’s industrial director of weapons, ammunition and special chemistry, Bekkhan Ozdoev, said: ‘Sprut-SDM1 is not inferior in firepower to tanks such as T-80 or T-90, and its mobility on land and water is at the level of BMD-4M.
‘The tank is capable of completing complex tactical missions, in particular, reconnaissance, working as part of raid or forward detachments, defence manoeuvres, attacking through water obstacles, amphibious operations, and territory control.’
The vehicle’s primary operator would be the Russian Airborne Forces. However, Ozdoev added he believed there would be interest from markets in India, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.
Trials are expected to be concluded in early 2022, paving the way for serial production.
Sprut-SDM1 features a UTD-29 500-horsepower engine capable of propelling the vehicle at speeds up to 70km/h on land and 10km/h on water.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![Predicted air defence spending boom opens doors to Indian industry]()
Predicted air defence spending boom opens doors to Indian industry
Recent conflicts have created a surge in interceptor demand worldwide while exposing potential supply chain challenges, positioning India as a cost-effective partner and scalable supplier.
-
![March land forces roundup: A new war confronts the old drone problem]()
March land forces roundup: A new war confronts the old drone problem
The attack by the US and Israel on Iran which began at the end of February presented a Ukraine-like scenario of drone-led warfare – in fact the same drone type in the Shahed – and the problem of how to counter them.
-
![New US$1.4 billion package to boost Canada’s defence capabilities]()
New US$1.4 billion package to boost Canada’s defence capabilities
The Canadian defence department has outlined major investments in ISR solutions, small arms and ammunition production capabilities as the country pushes for greater self-reliance to bolster its forces and its supply chain.
