The modernized BMD-4 airborne assault vehicle has concentrated all the advanced design and technological solutions. The new combat complex allows for the next decade to ensure the superiority of Russian paratroopers over competitors in terms of combat power, speed, and maneuver. At the same time, the possibility of parachuting it is retained.
At the forefront of the modernization of the BMD-4 is the principle of its unification in terms of units, assemblies and systems with the BMP-3. The basis for the modernization was the refinement of the chassis with the maximum possible use of MTU assemblies and structural elements of the BMP-3: the power unit, its servicing systems, control drives for water-repellent means, water cannons, and the hull. Along the way, manufacturers have significantly reduced production and operating costs. In general, the unification of the BMD-4M with the BMP-3 was about 80 percent.
In addition to unification, the modernization program provides for an improvement in the factors of mobility, security, firepower, ergonomics, which increased the combat effectiveness and survivability of the new complex. The designers have found, as they say in such cases, simple and effective solutions.
Installation of UTD-29 multi-fuel diesel engine with 50 hp more. power provided an increase in average speed.
The increased length of the support surface of the tracks reduced the specific load on the ground and increased the machine's cross-country ability.
Handling is improved through the use of a digital chassis information control system. The upgraded BMD-4 has an improved fire control system, a digital control system and satellite navigation. The digital fire control system at certain firing ranges increased the probability of hitting targets to 0.95-0.97.
Stabilization and control systems allow you to track air targets and fire at them to kill. In fact, our paratroopers receive a sufficiently effective means of countering enemy attack helicopters under certain conditions. The accuracy of hitting targets not observed from firing positions has been increased.
The implementation of the aft part of the vehicle hull without an opening above the power unit increased the internal volume of the hull and the buoyancy margin by 41.5 percent. Afloat, the upgraded BMD-4 can move with sea waves up to three points and at a speed of 10 km / h, and along the highway - 69.4 km / h.
Due to the greater compactness of the engine compartment, the combat crew was increased from 7 to 8 people and the total weight of the vehicle was reduced compared to the BMD-4. The combat weight of the new BMD-4 is 13.5 tons. It is 6 tons lighter than the BMP-3, which allows it to be dropped from an aircraft along with a combat crew. Of course, this parameter is important for the paratroopers.
