Jane’s is reporting that the first production BMD-4Ms have been delivered to Russian Airborne forces. This includes both the BMD-4M ‘Sadovnitsa’ infantry fighting vehicles and BTR-MDM ‘Rakushka’ armoured personnel carriers. The tracked BMD-4M is based on BMD-4, but incorporates a variety of improvements including a new upper hull, engine, chassis, and other subsystems. The aim behind the creation of the BMD-4M has been to improve the capabilities of the VDV’s armoured vehicles, while maintaining maximum commonality with BMP-3 IFV operated by the Russian Ground Forces. Meanwhile the BTR-MDM is based on the existing BTR-MD APC. It has similarly been designed to have a high level of commonality with the BMP-3 and the MBD-4M. The new APC is intended for the transportation of airborne troops, marines, ammunition, spare parts, or fuel. Full article here.
BMD-4M enters service with Russian Airborne Forces
March 10, 2015 by Leave a Comment
Russia tests new armored vehicle for airborne troops
February 2, 2015 by 1 Comment
RT News English has posted a video which they say is footage of a new armored vehicle for airborne troops being tested. The footage reportedly shows a BMD-4M going through its paces in low temperature conditions at the Dubrovichi Testing Ground in the Ryazan Region. According to the website Military-Today.com, the BMD-4D is an improved version of the BMD-4, featuring a new chassis and engine and hydropneumatic suspension.
