The BMD-2 airborne combat vehicle is not novel, but it forms the basis of the airborne troops' armored vehicle fleet. To maintain the required combat potential, this technique needs modernization. Several years ago, a project was launched to modernize command vehicles of the BMD-2K type under the name BMD-2K-AU. This technique should improve command and control at the battalion level. On October 5 and 6, the upgraded BMD-2K-AU vehicle was demonstrated at the exhibition “Innovation Day of the Southern Military District”.
The modernization project of BMD-2K-AU ("command automated unified") was created at the Research Institute of Communication and Control Systems (Moscow). This project involves the installation of a set of new equipment on the existing command vehicles. Such a refinement applies only to the complex of radio-electronic means and is intended to increase the capabilities of the commander's BMD when controlling an airborne battalion.
As part of the modernization, the basic BMD-2K receive a complex of automation and communications equipment of the third type (the so-called KSAS-3), intended for use by the commander of an airborne battalion. The equipment installed in the vehicle is part of the Polet-K airborne or airborne assault battalion's automated command and control system. The equipment of the BMD-2K-AU combat vehicle provides communication and control of the unit in several modes. Depending on the situation, the battalion commander can perform all operations manually or transfer part of his duties to automation.
According to available data, during the installation of the KSAS-3 equipment, the basic BMD-2K does not undergo noticeable changes. Machine design, power plant, weapons, etc. remain the same. Repairs can probably be carried out if necessary. This approach to modernization to a certain extent facilitates the simultaneous operation of equipment of several models of the same family, and also ensures their joint combat work.
Thus, the BMD-2K-AU retains bulletproof armor, which protects the crew and units from shelling from weapons of 12.7 mm caliber (frontal projection) or 7.62 mm (round). The combat weight remains at the level of 8 tons, which makes it possible to parachute the vehicle and cross water obstacles by swimming. Diesel engine 5D-20-240 240 hp provides a maximum speed on the highway up to 60 km / h and on water up to 10 km / h.
The armament of the updated command vehicle remains the same. The main weapon is a 30 mm 2A42 automatic cannon. Paired with the cannon is a 7.62 mm PKTM machine gun. Another such machine gun is mounted in the course mount of the hull. If necessary, the crew can use an anti-tank missile system. On the roof of the tower there is a pin for mounting the 9P135M launcher of the 9K111 "Fagot" complex. The control equipment and the launch mechanism with fasteners for the transport and launch container of the rocket are fixed on the pin.
While retaining the basic characteristics of all previous BMDs of its family, the BMD-2K-AU can operate in the same battle formations with other vehicles, providing control over the battalion's combat work. In addition, the command vehicle retains all the possibilities for direct participation in combat. If necessary, she, like other equipment of the unit, can fire at targets using all available weapons.
According to some sources, by now serial modernization of existing BMD-2K vehicles has been launched according to a new project. These works are carried out by several enterprises responsible for the supply of the necessary components and installation of equipment on the base machines. Thus, the installation of new equipment was entrusted to the Kaluga Telegraph Equipment Plant.
The troops have already received a number of BMD-2 in the "command automated unified" version. According to open information, in 2014, the Research Institute of Communication and Control Systems, together with related enterprises, had to transfer two dozen modernized machines to the customer. Based on the available data, it can be assumed that the modernization of the BMD-2K vehicles will continue. The total need of the Airborne Forces for such equipment can be estimated at several tens of units. Apparently, the BMD-2K-AU should be in every battalion armed with the basic BMD-2.
Currently, the Airborne Forces have several dozen BMD-2K-AU airborne combat vehicles delivered to various formations. One of the newest command vehicles arrived in Rostov-on-Don at the beginning of October to participate in the “Innovation Day of the Southern Military District” exhibition.
Externally, the BMD-2K-AU is similar to the usual BMD-2
The frontal part of the body of the characteristic angular shape
Driver's inspection devices
Periscopes at the paratroopers' places to the right and left of the driver
The troop compartment is also equipped with observation devices
On board the hull there are fasteners for the entrenching tool
Stern part of the machine
Equipment on the roof of the engine compartment
Antenna on the roof of the hull, at the starboard side. The only large exterior element that distinguishes the BMD-2K-AU from the BMD-2
Chassis
Tower
Automatic gun 2A42
Anti-tank missile system 9K111 "Fagot"
Observation devices and sights of the tower
There is a searchlight on the front of the turret, mechanically connected to the installation of the gun.
An awning is attached to the right side of the tower
