Kurganmashzavod, a subsidiary of the High-Precision Complexes holding company under the Rostec State Corporation, has successfully completed the delivery of the latest tranche of cutting-edge BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to the Russian Ministry of Defense. This delivery marks a significant milestone in the fulfillment of the state defense order, demonstrating Russia’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities. Over the past two years, Kurganmashzavod has ramped up its production efforts, meticulously refining its manufacturing processes to meet the stringent requirements set forth by the Ministry of Defense. This concerted effort has not only resulted in increased production volumes but has also led to notable advancements in the quality and performance of the BMP-3 vehicles.
In line with the specialized operational protocols implemented at Kurganmashzavod since 2022, the company has undertaken significant expansion initiatives, including the recruitment of over 2,000 skilled workers and specialists in various essential fields. However, the demand for highly proficient personnel persists, particularly in roles such as machine tool operators, overhead crane operators, turners, electricians specializing in equipment repair and maintenance, as well as process engineers and programmers. This ongoing commitment to bolstering both production capacity and workforce expertise underscores Rostec’s dedication to supporting the defense sector and ensuring the continued advancement of Russia’s military capabilities. Rostec reaffirms its pivotal role in fortifying Russia’s defense infrastructure and safeguarding national security.
The BMP-3 is a Soviet and Russian infantry fighting vehicle, successor to the BMP-1 and BMP-2. The abbreviation BMP stands for Boevaya Mashina Pekhoty (Infantry Combat Vehicle). The BMP-3 is one of the most heavily armed infantry combat vehicles in service. The original version has a turret fitted with a low-velocity 2A70 100 mm rifled gun which can fire conventional shells or 9M117 Bastion Anti Tank Guided Missiles (AT-10 Stabber). It carries 40 100 mm rounds and 8 ATGMs. A 2A72 30 mm dual feed autocannon with 500 (300 HEI and 200 AP-T) rounds and a rate of fire of 350 to 400 rounds per minute and a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun with 2,000 rounds are mounted coaxially in the turret. There are also two 7.62 mm PKT bow machine guns, again with 2,000 rounds each. The BMP-3 is capable of engaging targets out to 5,000–6,000 metres with its ATGM weapon system 9K116-3 “Basnya”.
BMP-3s is equipped with the 500 hp UTD-29M version. The engine was developed at the Transmash Diesel Engine Plant in Barnaul. The BMP-3 has a range of 600 km, an altitude of operation of up to 3,000 m and it is transportable by train, truck, sea, and air. The BMP-3 engine is a diesel four-stroke, liquid-cooled design. The transmission is a four-speed hydromechanical power unit, with power takeoff to its water jets. The suspension is independent, with a torsion bar and six hydraulic shock absorbers. Steering is by gear differential with hydrostatic drive. The track adjusting mechanism is remotely controlled from the driver’s station, with tension force indication. The water-jet propulsion unit is single-stage, axial, auger-type. The vehicle has an unconventional layout. The engine is in the back of the vehicle to the right (unlike most other IFVs, which have the engine located forward in the hull).
You will notice that there is no size number associated with this tranche.