The Serbian Army has begun integrating the domestically produced BOV OT M-21 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) into its operational units, marking a significant enhancement in its ground mobility and combat power. Units of the 1st Army Brigade are undergoing intensive training in the combat use and maintenance of these mine-protected 4×4 vehicles. The 1st Army Brigade brigade of the Serbian Army. The brigade was formed on July 31, 2006, from units located in Vojvodina and Mačva: Novi Sad Corps and parts of the 1st Armoured Brigade as well as 402nd and 485th Pontoon Battalion. The Brigade’s units are spread out throughout the territory of northern Serbia, mostly Vojvodina and Mačva, from the border with Hungary on north to Croatia and Romania on west and east, to western Serbia to the south. It consists of mechanized infantry, armoured, artillery, air defence artillery, engineer, signal and logistics units.
The initial phase of training focuses on the vehicle’s permanent crew members, including the commander, gunner, and driver. These individuals are trained to fully exploit the capabilities of the BOV OT M-21, which is equipped with a 12.7 mm machine gun, smoke grenade launchers, and firing slits along the vehicle’s sides. In subsequent phases, an infantry squad will be added to the training regimen, working to coordinate their operations within the vehicle. This stage will include tactical field exercises and live-fire drills designed to prepare soldiers for real-world combat scenarios. The exercises will hone their ability to use the BOV OT M-21 in conjunction with other Serbian Armed Forces units, ensuring seamless coordination during combat operations. The introduction of the BOV OT M-21 has significantly boosted the operational capabilities of Serbian infantry units. Designed for safe movement across a variety of terrains and weather conditions, the BOV OT M-21 provides critical battlefield flexibility while enhancing troop protection.
The BOV OT M-21 represents the latest in the BOV series, a long-standing line of armored vehicles that have been in service since the days of the former Yugoslavia. Produced in Serbia today, the BOV (Serbian: Борбено оклопно возило (БОВ), or Borbeno oklopno vozilo) has been continually refined to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. The newest generation, the BOV OT M-21, is the result of extensive modifications made to its predecessor, with production carried out at the FAP Factory in Serbia. Designed for the safe transport of up to 10 personnel, the vehicle features comprehensive mine protection and is capable of navigating all types of terrain and tactical conditions. This level of versatility is crucial for ensuring the mobility and survivability of Serbian troops in dynamic combat environments.
The BOV OT M-21 is powered by a Cummins ISB 6.7 EU 3 engine, which generates 285 horsepower (210 kilowatts). Paired with a seven-speed (6+1) Allison 3000 automatic gearbox, the vehicle offers impressive power and control. Its 4×4 all-wheel drive capability, combined with differential locking, ensures the BOV OT M-21 can handle rough terrains and difficult operational environments. The vehicle is also equipped with advanced ballistic protection, providing front armor that can withstand 20 mm rounds and side armor resistant to 12.7 mm projectiles. This level of protection allows for increased survivability during engagements, making it a reliable asset for infantry units during both defensive and offensive operations. The introduction of the first batch of ten BOV OT M-21s in 2023 marks a crucial step forward in bolstering the Serbian Army’s ground forces.
