Degradation of the Russian BMP-3: from a formidable infantryman to an “assault gun” with vague prospects
A new tactic is being deployed on the battlefield near Kupyansk: Russian occupants are re-equipping their BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles with “assault guns”.
Although the BMP-3 has powerful weapons, it cannot cope with the tasks on the battlefield. Weak armor makes the crew vulnerable, and the vehicle’s layout does not allow it to fire effectively.
Efficiency
On the one hand, the use of BMP-3s as “assault guns” allows them to fire from closed positions at a distance of up to 4 kilometers.
On the other hand, the BMP-3 armor cannot withstand return fire, making this tactic risky.
Alternatives
- T-54/55: tanks taken out of storage have proven to be effective “assault guns,” but their stocks are limited.
- Pat-S self-propelled artillery system: a 152-mm self-propelled artillery system based on the BMP-3, which was announced in 2023 but has not yet been implemented.
- 2S25 “Sprut”: a self-propelled gun with a 125-mm cannon, but with low protection.
Prototype SAU 2S18 “Pat-S” on the BMP-3 chassis
The transition to “assault guns” from BMP-3 is a symptom of deeper problems in the Russian army. This decision, which is questionable from the point of view of efficiency, can lead to additional losses.
The future of the occupiers’ armored vehicles depends on the ability of their military-industrial complex to solve problems with protection and firepower. In the meantime, the once formidable infantryman is turning into an “assault cannon” with no clear prospects.
