The Russian News Agency TASS reported that the preliminary trials of the cutting-edge BT-3F amphibious armored personnel carrier are at the final stage and the company is ready for its serial production. the Rostec told TASS that vehicle were tested in the sea and firing tests were conducted, which proved its resistance to external impacts, including the impact of conventional armaments. The Kurganmashzavod enterprise has carried out preparations for the vehicle’s production. BT-3F armored personnel carrier is ready for its serial manufacture as soon as a contract for its delivery to the troops is signed.
BT-3F from Kurganmashzavod JSC is a marines fighting vehicle developed specifically for transporting marine infantry (up to 14 personnel) and also for providing fire support. It is based on a BMP-3F infantry fighting vehicle with improved amphibious capabilities. It lacks turret of the BMP-3F, but has a raised superstructure, similar to that of the 1V172-2 artillery control vehicle. In concept it is similar to the ageing Soviet BTR-50P. The BTR-50P is based on the chassis of the PT-76 amphibious light tank and, as an APC, seats the passengers along benches in an area behind the protected crew compartment.
The BT-3F can be launched at sea from amphibious assault ships. Specially designed for operations at sea, with improved seaworthiness and buoyancy, capability to move afloat at sea state 3 and fire with the required accuracy at sea state 2. Its main role is to deliver marines from ship to shore under armor protection. The BT-3F is also intended to spearhead a beach and to secure coastline for ongoing troops. Once ashore the BT-3F can be used for patrolling, guard checkpoints, and carry troops and supplies further inland. The vehicle weighs over 18 tonnes and its armor provides all-round protection against a large-caliber machine-gun.
The BT-3F retains the engine and transmission of the BMP-3. It is powered by an UTD-29 diesel engine, developing 500 hp. Engine is mounted at the hull rear. This armored personnel carrier has a hydropneumatic suspension, which can be adjusted to suit the type of ground being crossed. This armored personnel carrier is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by two waterjets. Vehicle is fitted with a built-in self-entrenching blades, and can prepare itself a defensive position. This armored personnel carrier is fitted with a remotely-controlled weapon station, armed with a 7.62, 12.7, 14.5mm machine gun. or 40 mm automatic grenade launchers.
