Terminators may enter service with the Russian army.
This is the name of the modernized tank support combat vehicle.

Object 199 “Frame” (also widely known under the more general name “Tank Support Combat Vehicle”; in the media and even on the official UVZ website it often appears under the unofficial nickname “Terminator”) is a Russian tank support combat vehicle: a combat vehicle designed for action as part of tank formations with the aim of destroying enemy tank weapons - to effectively suppress enemy manpower equipped with grenade launchers, anti-tank systems, small arms; There is also the ability to hit tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, bunkers, bunkers and other highly protected targets on the move and from the spot.

Object 199 (BMPT "Ramka" / "Terminator") - a Russian combat vehicle for fire support of tanks - has no analogues in the world.
Its purpose is to support tanks in urban combat.

The development of the BMPT began back in the 80s and ended in 2006.
Since then, the BMPT has undergone many dramatic changes. The final version was created on the basis of the T-90A tank and is equipped with the new generation Relikt VDZ.

It is worth noting that the name “Terminator” is not official, but has become so commonplace that it is mentioned much more often than “Frame”, and even on the official website of Uralvagonozavod it is listed as “Terminator”.

Development of the BMPT ended at the end of 2006. Despite official statements that by 2010 one company of ground forces will be created, fully equipped with new vehicles, in 2009 the BMPT was put into service Armed Forces Russia did not take place, mass production was not started.
Now a number of BMPTs are in the Ryazan school, but are in service only in the army of Kazakhstan.
After the IDEX-2013 exhibition, Saudi Arabia became interested in it.

The creation of the BMPT was preceded by the development of specialized combat vehicles - “tanks for border troops.” The design of the machine was carried out at the Federal State Unitary Enterprise "Ural Design Bureau" transport engineering"from 1998 to 2000 with a guided weapons complex with the Kornet missile, and since December 2000 - with a guided weapons complex with the Ataka missile.

The military was forced to begin developing the BMPT by changing combat conditions.
Previously, we naively prepared for some kind of global confrontation between tank armadas, but now life forces us to fight with partisans or militants. We remember very well the losses of tanks and infantry fighting vehicles we suffered Russian troops during the storming of Grozny in 1995. When any building serves as ideal cover for a grenade launcher, the tank will not last long. This means that we need to give him something to help him that would quickly and often destroy the walls of houses, turning the enemies hiding behind them into mincemeat.

It would be nice to also cover this “something” with reliable armor. Based on these considerations, the designers created the “Terminator” based on the famous T-90 tank, equipping it with a multi-fuel engine capable of a thousand “horses”.
It is impossible to escape from the “Terminator” even over potholes: a car rushing at a speed of 60 km/h jumps over three-meter ditches and easily crawls over one and a half meter walls!

The BMPT is designed to replace motorized rifle troops on the battlefield, which protects tanks from being hit by enemy anti-tank weapons. The BMPT is designed to effectively suppress enemy personnel equipped with grenade launchers, anti-tank systems, and small arms; It is also possible to hit tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, bunkers, bunkers and other highly protected targets with supersonic laser-guided Ataka anti-tank missiles from the Ataka-T KUV, as well as destroy helicopters and low-flying aircraft.

One BMPT "Terminator" is superior in firepower to two motorized rifle platoons - 6 infantry fighting vehicles and about 40 personnel. According to experts, there should be one such vehicle for every three tanks (platoon).

The Ataka missile in a tube-container installed on the launcher allows the BMPT to fire missiles after crossing a water obstacle up to 5 m deep along the bottom.

Basic weapons consist of:
— two 30-mm automatic guns 2A42 (900 rounds);
— 7.62 mm PKTM machine gun (2000 rounds);
— ATGM type “Attack” or “Cornet” (four missile launchers on the turret launcher);
— two AGS-17 grenade launchers (300 rounds in a single belt for each) in the fender niches.

The power of the Terminator's weapons is crushing: the BMPT can fire in a minute:
- nine hundred 30-mm shells,
- six hundred 30-mm grenades,
- two thousand 7.62 mm bullets.

The BMPT's ammunition capacity is enough to burn out every living thing in an area of ​​3 square meters. km.
Needless to say, BMPT missiles penetrate the armor of any tanks and concrete bunkers at a distance of up to 5 km, and can also shoot down a helicopter and even a low-flying enemy aircraft. Well, the AG-17D grenade launchers with a mounted grenade flight path ensure the destruction of targets in trenches in a zone of up to 1 km.

The Terminator BMPT has a modern, advanced automatic fire control system (FCS) "Frame". The gunner's sight includes:
- thermal imaging channel,
- optical channel,
— ground-based control equipment for the laser-beam ATGM guidance channel,
- laser rangefinder.

The commander's panoramic sight has a 360° field of view.
The panoramic sight has optical, low-level television and laser rangefinder channels. If necessary, the commander can display the image of the gunner's thermal imaging sight on his video device.

The automated fire control system has a digital ballistic computer, a set of automatic sensors for firing conditions and an automatic target tracking system, which significantly simplifies and increases the efficiency of using guided weapons.
Control of the weapon complex is duplicated - the commander has the ability to conduct effective fire from the entire weapon complex located in the turret. The workplaces of automatic grenade launcher operators are equipped with Agat-MP stabilized sights (day/night). The BMPT weapon system creates high-density fire and is capable of attacking up to four targets simultaneously.

Armor protection - rolled and cast steel and multi-layer combined, projectile-proof, with dynamic protection.
The forehead of the BMPT hull has protection equal to the main T-90 tank, however, unlike the T-90, which provides protection from anti-tank weapons within a heading angle of ±35°, the BMPT provides reliable protection from infantry anti-tank melee weapons within 360°.

Moreover, when using additional fabric screens with dynamic protection elements installed in conditions mass application anti-tank melee weapons, provides maximum protection even during normal fire. The weapons unit is mounted on a support on the rear of the turret. All ammunition has been moved beyond the reserved volume.

"Terminator" has a light indication of direction and sound alarm about irradiation of BMPT with laser means and automatic counteraction to this. The machine is equipped with a filter and ventilation unit (FVU), which pumps purified outside air into the machine. Due to excess pressure, toxic substances, radioactive dust, etc. do not get inside, even if the machine is not sealed. There is an electromagnetic protection system that ensures the neutralization (premature detonation) of anti-tank mines or land mines with radio and magnetometric fuses.

By the way, being a completely new type of weapon, the Terminator BMPT is not subject to reductions under the CFE Treaty (the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe). This class of equipment simply did not exist at the time the contract was drawn up, because the Terminator is neither a tank nor an armored vehicle. This means that no one will forbid us to stock up on more of them.

Main characteristics:
Type................................Combat Tank Fire Support Vehicle
Lineup...................Classic
Weight........................... 48 tons
Crew........................5 people
Length........................6960 / 7200 mm 1
Height........................3440 mm
Width........................3800 mm
Suspension type............ Torsion bar, individual
Gearbox type........................Automatic
Engine make.........V-92S2
Engine type...............Diesel, multi-fuel
Power...................1000 hp
Engine capacity.........38880 cm3
Number of cylinders.........12
Cruising range......550 km 2
Max. speed...............50 / 65 km/h 3
Fuel consumption, max.....~2.5 / 4.5 l/km 4
Prev. ditch...............2.7 m
Prev. wall................0.85 m
Prev. ford.............. 1.2 / 1.8 / 5 m 5
Type of armor......................steel, combined, projectile-proof
DZ type........................VDZ, "Relic"
Type KAZ........................KOEP "Shtora-1" (irradiation sensors only)
Steel equivalent......800-1000 / 1300-1600 mm 6
Gun brand...................2 x 2A42 7
Gun type......................Small-caliber rifled automatic gun
Gun caliber.............30 mm
Availability of KUV...................Yes, "Ataka-T"
Types of ammunition......OFS, SBO, ATGM
Ammunition...................900 shells, 4 ATGMs
Rate of fire........300 / 800 shot. / min 8
Gave. shooting........................4 - 1.5 / 8 km 9
Add. weapons........12 x 78-mm smoke grenade launchers 902B "Cloud", 1 x 7.62-mm PKMT machine gun and 2 x 30-mm automatic grenade launchers AGS-17 "Plamya"

Video:

MOSCOW, June 28 - RIA Novosti, Andrey Kots. The promising Russian tank support combat vehicle BMPT-72 "Terminator-2" was first spotted in Syria. It was demonstrated to Bashar al-Assad by the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, during the Syrian president’s visit to the Khmeimim airbase. In the photo that went viral social networks and the media, a BMPT of the latest modification in sand camouflage, partially covered with a camouflage net, was captured. Apparently, this vehicle is part of the defense forces Russian base on a par with T-90 tanks.

Uralvagonzavod showed the Terminator BMPT and modernized tanksAt the arms exhibition in Malaysia, the Russian corporation also presented the BREM-1M armored repair and recovery vehicle, the IMR-3M engineering obstacle clearing vehicle and the MTU-72 bridge laying vehicle.

The Syrian combat mission was the first for Terminator 2. Its predecessor was created back in 2001 and was known at that time under the designation Object 199 Frame. The BMPT is a vehicle with unique characteristics and a very difficult fate. Long years The Russian Ministry of Defense, under various pretexts, refused to accept it into service. Nevertheless, many experts believe that the appearance of a tank support combat vehicle in Syria could become a test of its professional suitability and relevance in the army. The future of the Terminator depends on how it performs in the war.

Land destroyer

The experience of the war in Afghanistan and two Chechen campaigns has shown that greatest danger for armored vehicles in combat conditions in the city and on rough terrain, enemy grenade launchers and anti-tank operators represent missile systems(ATGM). The BMPT was specially developed at Uralvagonzavod as a mobile and universal means of protecting armored vehicles from infantry. According to the designers, these vehicles were supposed to advance together with tanks in the same battle formation and attack any target that posed a danger to their charges.

For this purpose, the BMPT was literally stuffed with a variety of weapons systems. The modern BMPT-72 in this regard is more reminiscent of a land destroyer rather than a combat vehicle. Its main armament is a twin 30-mm 2A42 automatic cannon (they are also installed on BMP-2, BTR-90 and combat helicopters) with an ammunition load of 900 rounds. In addition to the guns, the turret is equipped with a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun. On the sides of the turret there are two armored casings, inside of which are placed transport and launch containers with guided anti-tank missiles 9M120-1 or 9M120-1F/4, capable of hitting targets at distances of up to six kilometers. In addition, two AG-17D course automatic grenade launchers are mounted in the front part of the hull for firing fragmentation ammunition at infantry. This entire arsenal is installed on the chassis of the T-72 tank. The first Terminators were operated by crews of five.

Initially, it was planned to fully equip one company with early versions of BMPT Ground Forces by 2010, but then the vehicle was not accepted for service. Between 2011 and 2013, a batch of 10 Terminators was delivered to Kazakhstan. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Defense was in no hurry to completely abandon the BMPT and in 2013 held a special lesson on its combat use for teachers of the Ryazan Higher Airborne School. One of the main complaints of the military against the BMPT then was that the crew was too large. However, in BMPT-72 (Terminator 2) it was possible to reduce it to three people.

Review problem

However, the Ministry of Defense had other complaints about this machine. According to a member of the Expert Council of the Board of the Military-Industrial Commission of Russia, reserve colonel tank troops Viktor Murakhovsky, the BMPT was simply not in demand in the Ground Forces until recently.

“The main concern of a tank on the battlefield is to see the target,” the expert told RIA Novosti. “If he sees it, he will destroy it, be it a long-term firing point, an ATGM crew, an armored vehicle, a fighter with a grenade launcher. All this is hit by the tank within the line of sight range That is, he has enough firepower. If we look at the surveillance systems and sighting systems on the Terminators and on the main battle tanks, we will notice that they are absolutely identical. That is, the BMPT crew will see no more on the battlefield than the T-crew. " .

Viktor Murakhovsky emphasized that the appearance of Terminator 2 in Syria is quite natural. He recalled: at the beginning of 2017, the Ministry of Defense reported that 160 types of weapons, including those that had not yet passed military acceptance, were being tested in combat operations in this country. According to the expert, the BMPT-72 captured in the photograph is the only example of Terminator 2 that exists “in metal.” And the desire of the military to test it in conditions, in particular, of combat in urban areas, is completely justified. Without such exploitation, all talk about its effectiveness or ineffectiveness is only theoretical speculation.

© Photo: Telegram account of the press service of the President of Syria

© Photo: Telegram account of the press service of the President of Syria

“We have experience in the combat use of equipment with rapid-fire cannon weapons in various military conflicts,” said Murakhovsky. “We are talking about the Shilka and Tunguska anti-aircraft systems.” But we must understand that small-caliber weapons are, as the military says, not destroys the target and suppresses it with fire. In some cases, this is useful. However, many doubt that the BMPT will be able to replace the covering infantry in combat formations. The motorized rifleman always sees more than the tanker and can respond faster to any threat to the tank. In general, according to my many years of experience. service in the Ground Forces, I can say that the role of covering heavy armored vehicles is best played by artillery. We practiced the tactics of a tank offensive under the “umbrella” of fragmentation shells. They exploded at a height of 25-30 meters above the tank line, covering a wide area with striking elements. No grenade launcher. under such a squall he wouldn’t stick his head out of the trench. And shrapnel posed no danger to tank armor.”

The expert emphasized that one can argue as much as one wants about whether the army needs the Terminator or not, but the most important indicator is combat experience. The war will put everything in its place, he concluded.

"Terminator 3"

Whether the BMPT-72 will be accepted into service based on the results of the Syrian exam or not is an open question. But it is known for sure that the developments obtained during the creation of this technology can be used in a fundamentally new tank support combat vehicle.

President of the Syrian Arab Republic Bashar al-Assad visited the Russian Aerospace Forces airbase in KhmeimimGeneral Director of Uralvagonzavod Oleg Sienko told in an interview with RIA Novosti what new products the company will present at the Army-2016 forum.

Back in 2016, General Director of Uralvagonzavod Oleg Sienko told RIA Novosti that his corporation had developed a concept for the development of vehicles based on the latest Armata platform, which consists of 28 units of promising types of weapons, including air defense and heavy armored vehicles. These include the BMPT. Little is known about the future car. But it was reported, in particular, that instead of 30 mm guns, a more powerful 57 mm gun could be installed on it, as well as the latest sighting systems, protection systems, communications equipment and much more.

Combat vehicles are being developed as fire support for various units. Most often, they provide cover for infantry (infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers), supporting fighters with gun fire and machine gun crews. Such cover is relevant both in local conflicts and in specialized operations.

Are being developed and combat vehicles tank support (BMPT). They are equipped with a range of weapons that allow them to solve a wide range of tasks on the battlefield. The main emphasis is on destroying enemy anti-tank weapons.

BMPT "Terminator" - Russian version fire support combat vehicle (FSCV). For a long time it was focused primarily on exports, which is why it got its name. Recently entered service with the Russian army.

Development history

The first work on the creation of the BMPT (BMPT in transliteration) began in the 1980s at the Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant. At the same time, research was carried out on the creation of tanks for border troops. After the collapse of the USSR, development was frozen. The project was resumed in 1998 in accordance with the order of the Ministry of Defense.

Development was carried out both on the basis of the T-72 tank and on the T-90. The first version was ready in 2000. The BMPT's armament included a 30-mm cannon, a coaxial Kalashnikov machine gun, Kornet anti-tank missiles and two grenade launchers.

Two years later, the vehicle received a second gun of the same caliber. The estimated reduction in ammunition and weight, the lack of standardized ammunition and automatic loading mechanisms for guns over 30 mm did not allow the installation of more powerful guns.

Combat tests of the new vehicle were successfully completed in 2006. However, the Ministry of Defense refused to accept it for service. "Terminator" participated in international and Russian exhibitions. At the same time, various aspects of its design and armament were refined.

In 2017, a combat vehicle was sent to Syria as an experiment. Significant doubts were expressed about this - there were no large-scale tank offensives, which made it impossible to use the BMPT for its intended purpose.

Despite this, “Terminator” showed itself to be excellent in solving a wide range of problems. The combination of tank armor, cannon-machine-gun and rocket fire showed the demand for BMPTs in local combat conditions.

Taking into account the results shown, already in August 2017 the Ministry of Defense signed a contract for the supply of the Terminator fire support combat vehicle to Russian army. The first batch entered service on May 5, 2018, taking part in the Victory Parade.

The name of this car is one of the most controversial aspects. In development, the technique is designated “Object 199.” For promotion in foreign markets, the BMPT received the name “Terminator”, which quickly came into use in the Russian media. It was expected that when adopted by the Russian Federation, the vehicle would be called “Frame-99”, but this name never became widespread. Also, one should not confuse the combat vehicle with the T2000 Terminator multi-frequency jammers.

Fire support combat vehicles are initially designed as multi-purpose vehicles. Their strategic purpose- deployment as part of tank formations and destruction of any targets that could impede the offensive.

As a result, BMPTs are used to destroy enemy personnel, priority is given to crews with grenade launchers, small arms and anti-tank systems. The vehicle's gun allows you to hit some tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, pillboxes and bunkers and other objects.

Serial production of this equipment is carried out at Uralvagonzavod. Commenting on the success of the Terminator in Syria, its representatives stated that the BMPT is comparable in firepower and tasks to six infantry fighting vehicles and 40 soldiers. At the same time, it can hit any type of target, including small ships and low-flying helicopters.

BMPT design

The design of the BMPT Terminator has many similarities with the T-90A, which was taken as the basis for its development. Taking into account the weapons, the turret design has been greatly redesigned; the remote control module is located in the rear of the hull. The ammunition load is located outside the armor, which increases the survivability of the crew in the event of a shaped charge hit.

Dynamic protection "Relic"

The Terminator BMOP uses rolled, cast, multi-layer combined and projectile-resistant steel armor. A key role in the survivability of the vehicle is played by the Relikt dynamic protection module.

The project was developed on the basis of the Soviet version of “Kontakt-5” and surpassed it in all key parameters. The principle of operation is based on “two-way throwing”. The projectile is under the influence of two armor plates, one of which moves towards it, the other - after it.

Such a system increases the resistance to projectiles by 1.2 times in the range of ± 20° and ± 35° in the hull and turret, respectively. Protection against cumulative projectiles is doubled. To counter such ammunition, lattice screens are also provided to protect the aft part of the engine compartment.

The Terminator crew

"Terminator" has a classic layout designed for 5 crew members. It includes a squad commander, a gunner, a driver and two front-line grenade launcher operators. Weapons control is duplicated. The automated system allows the commander to fire all weapons located on the turret.

Surveillance and communications equipment

The Terminator BMPT is equipped with automated system fire control (FCS) "Frame". The gunner carries out aiming using thermal imaging and laser channels; laser beam guidance is also used for anti-tank guided missiles.

The commander's panoramic sight has similar channels and all-round visibility. There is an automatic fire adjustment system that takes into account shooting conditions with a roll or trim of up to 15 degrees. There are warning and protective systems to counteract laser irradiation from the enemy.

The basic surveillance and communications equipment is similar to the T-90 tank, however, a number of aspects have been revised in favor of the latest developments. For example, the positions of grenade launcher operators are equipped with Agat-MP stabilized sights, designed for day and night fire.

Means of camouflage

The Terminator BMPT is not designed for covert operations. This technique is aimed at supporting tank offensives. Combat experience has shown the vehicle's relevance in local conflicts, but special camouflage is not used for it. In this matter, only the camouflage color and the ability to conduct operations under smoke screen conditions are distinguished.

Main weapons

The BMPT's armament is represented by several types, which makes the Terminator a multifunctional support vehicle. Thanks to its wide range of capabilities, it can be used not only to support tanks, but also to cover infantry.

The key advantage of the BMPT is high-density fire. The difference in weapons allows you to attack up to four different targets simultaneously. For effective advancement, there is electromagnetic protection that ensures the premature detonation of mines and landmines.

30 mm guns 2A42

The 2A42 rifled gun is designed to destroy enemy infantry, lightly armored vehicles and fortifications, as well as low-flying air targets. Shooting is carried out in single shots and bursts. Combined ammunition supply, the gun can fire high-explosive fragmentation and armor-piercing shells.

The effective engagement range depends on the type of target. The gun hits enemy manpower within 4 km, equipment and air targets - 1.5 and 2 km, respectively. "Terminator" has two such guns, the total ammunition is designed for 900 shots.

Ataka 9M120-1 ATGM with laser guidance system

The Ataka anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) is designed to destroy armored vehicles, manpower, air defense, pillboxes and helicopters. Modification 9M120-1 has a tandem cumulative combat unit. Firing range - from 400 to 6000 m. Ammunition - 4 missiles. The laser guidance system ensures high accuracy after irradiating the target.

7.62 mm PKTM machine gun

The Terminator BMOP has one modernized Kalashnikov tank machine gun (PKTM) of 7.62 mm caliber. Designed to defeat infantry and lightly armored targets. Ammunition capacity is 2000 rounds. Automated management.

Automatic grenade launcher AGS-17

AGS-17D - automatic grenade launchers. The main purpose is to defeat enemy infantry and fire crews located in open shelters - trenches, trenches, behind rocks, in ravines and hollows. Caliber - 30 mm, belt feed. There are two such grenade launchers on the BMPT, each with 300 rounds of ammunition.

Filter ventilation unit

The filter ventilation unit (FVU) ensures the purification of the air entering the car. Thanks to the high pressure, the crew is protected from poisonous gases, radioactive dust and other substances entering the vehicle. The filtration system also works if the machine is not sealed.

Specifications

Technical characteristics of the Terminator BMPT have the following indicators:

• hull length - 6.96 m, with a gun - 7.2 m;
• width along the tracks - 3.37 m, along the side screens - 3.8 m;
• height along the turret roof - 1.94 m, along the commander's panoramic sight - 3.44;
• ground clearance - 0.406 m;
• combat weight - 48 tons;
• engine - V12 V-92S2, diesel, turbocharged;
• engine power - 1000 l. With.;
• highway speed - up to 65 km/h;
• Highway range - 550 km;
• climbability - up to 30 degrees;
• overcoming the wall - 0.85 m;
• the ditch to be overcome is 2.7 m.

The performance characteristics of the BMPT "Terminator" also allows you to overcome deep fords. Without preparation, the vehicle can be immersed in water to 1.2 m, with preparation - 1.8 m. When using equipment for underwater tank driving (OPVT), the BMOP can be immersed in water to 5 m.

The lineup

The model range has three modifications:

• "Terminator" - basic prototype;
• "Terminator 2" - a modernized version, presented in the fall of 2014;
• “Terminator-3” is a new level project based on the “Armata” universal combat platform.

The latest modification, according to the developers, will acquire an AU-220M combat module with more powerful gun 57 mm caliber and a destruction range of 12 km. This weapon was developed for light warships and in the future will allow the vehicle to destroy targets without entering their engagement range.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of the Terminator BMPT are the following:

• firepower and destruction of several targets simultaneously;
• good driving performance and high maneuverability;
• better maneuverability compared to tanks.

The advantages of the combat vehicle have been confirmed in Syria. The equipment was not used for its intended purpose to support tank offensives, but showed good effectiveness as universal support. It is multitasking that makes the BMPT in demand for the army.

The machine can be used both in mountainous and wooded areas and in urban environments. The tower has a wide range of gun guidance, which allows you to destroy the enemy both in the basements and in the upper floors of buildings. As a result, the vehicle can support infantry assault squads, accompany convoys and perform the functions of an infantry fighting vehicle.

Among the disadvantages is the high cost of production; according to some sources, the Terminator is more expensive than a tank. It is expected that the new modification will cost even more. It is still unclear how effective such weapons will be.

Use in combat conditions and duty support

For a long time, the Terminator was positioned as an exhibition model for foreign buyers. The only country that purchased 10 units of this equipment was Kazakhstan in 2011-13. It was expected to deepen cooperation and license the assembly of cars in the territory of this country.

The Russian army received fire support combat vehicles only after combat testing in Syria. "Terminator" showed itself effective means struggle in a local conflict, which was the key reason for its adoption. At the end of March 2018, the number of vehicles in the Russian Army also amounted to 10 units; a contract for the supply of a new batch is expected to be concluded.

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Unfortunately, over the past 20 years, our armored forces have been repeatedly used in the most unfortunate situations for them, which is why tankers suffered significant losses in equipment and personnel. This is largely due to the fact that MBTs were used in urban environments, without satisfactory cover by groups of infantrymen. In principle, Soviet developers thought about all this, who created the machine, which later received the sonorous nickname “Terminator”. BMPT, that is, tanks, was supposed to accompany tank units while clearing cities and suppress the actions of enemy grenade launchers and missile system operators, being in close cooperation with their infantrymen.

It must be said that the development of such technology began in the USSR, during the Afghan campaign. Then the unpleasant features of the domestic BMP-1/2 had already become clear, which were too easily knocked out even from heavy machine guns, and yet they had to operate in “tank” conditions, for which, theoretically, these armored vehicles were intended (even partially). The first model of the BMPT “Terminator” (you will see a photo of the machine in the article) was called “Viper”, but after the collapse of the USSR, no one cared about it.

Basic information

The experience of recent years (especially the actions of the Americans in Iraq) clearly shows that in populated areas, well-equipped infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers are in no way inferior in their combat effectiveness, and sometimes even superior to tanks. This is due to the fact that their weapons are much better suited for identifying and eliminating an enemy armed with heavy anti-tank weapons. In addition, practice shows that the enemy rarely uses expensive anti-tank systems to knock out light armored vehicles, preferring to use heavy machine guns. At the same time, the crew of the same infantry fighting vehicle often remains alive, and the accompanying equipment detects revealing fire and destroys the enemy.

For this purpose, NATO troops prefer to use heavy infantry fighting vehicles, and in our country a special vehicle, the Terminator, has long been created for this purpose. This BMPT allows you to solve a wide range of combat missions.

What it is?

Rosoboronexport first demonstrated this equipment at an international exhibition back in 2011, but it was created much earlier. This vehicle has a full range of weapons for protection against anti-tank weapons, and also has a powerful “diagnostic” complex designed to identify and destroy camouflaged enemy personnel. The same technique can be used to destroy low-flying targets, including combat and transport helicopters, as well as drones. Why did the car receive the “overseas” nickname “Terminator”? This BMPT truly has no analogues in the world, and therefore it was so dubbed by the Western media, delighted with the capabilities of the Russian novelty.

What is it intended for?

The BMPT is intended for operations as part of motorized rifle, tank and infantry units. But its main task is to identify and suppress all enemy weapons that pose a direct danger to tanks. The main weapon of the vehicle, the 10-mm OPU 2A70 cannon, which is accompanied by an impressive ammunition load, allows it to effectively suppress targets of various types at a distance of up to five thousand meters, and also fight almost equally with heavy enemy armored vehicles.

Thus, at a distance of up to 2.5 thousand meters, the BMPT can effectively fight even tanks. A 40-mm grenade launcher mounted on the turret allows you to destroy enemy personnel at a distance of up to two kilometers. This weapon clearly shows the layout of the Terminator BMPT. The model (“Zvezda” TV showed it in one of the episodes) allows you to clearly see the thoughtfulness and power of standard weapons.

If there is a need to engage heavy enemy armored vehicles at a distance of up to five kilometers, Arkan missiles are used, launched through the main gun. For the same purposes, the Kornet ATGM is mounted on board, the missiles of which are located in containers protected against bullets and shrapnel. In both cases, it is possible to effectively destroy not only tanks, but also enemy helicopters at a distance of up to four kilometers (provided they move along an inclined trajectory).

Features of the new car

State tests assessed the capabilities of defeating enemy personnel through the use of all weapon systems. Already the first prototype of the Terminator BMPT managed to amaze everyone. The test results were excellent. This is largely due not so much to the power of the guns, but to the modern complex of surveillance devices, which were previously installed only on the latest domestic tanks (and even then in export configuration). The full range of weapons allows simultaneous firing at three targets at once.

Thus, in a combat situation, each crew member can perform his task. Because of this, even the prototype BMPT “Terminator” (level 6 armor protection, by the way) showed an extremely high degree of combat effectiveness, which even the performance of tanks does not always reach.

Caring for the life of the crew

This vehicle especially stands out due to the increased concern for the safety of the crew. Relatively small dimensions and thoughtful coloring ensure its low visibility on the battlefield. The Terminator BMPT, a photo of which is in the article, is equipped with built-in dynamic protection, which several times increases the crew’s chances of survival when fired by cumulative ammunition. There is also an active smoke screen system. When using it, equipment can be hidden not only from visual detection by the enemy in combat conditions, but also significantly reduce the likelihood of being hit by missiles with active homing systems. There is also the possibility of jamming artillery systems with laser targeting systems.

The side projections of the vehicle are completely covered with dynamic protection screens. In combination with external lattice screens, which were developed at the Steel Research Institute, this allows for maximum survivability of the Terminator BMPT. A prefabricated model of this vehicle, which has been repeatedly shown on TV, allows you to clearly evaluate the hull armor. 

The entire fuel supply is also located in high-quality armored compartments inside the hull. Like the sides, the aft projection is completely covered with lattice screens. Even if the armor is penetrated, the likelihood of the crew being hit by its fragments is minimized, since the entire internal volume of the landing compartment is lined with special fabric screens that protect people in the belly of the BMPT. “Terminator” drawings (general), which can sometimes be seen in the media, confirm that the survivability rate of soldiers in this vehicle is probably no lower than in a modern tank.

Mobility and maneuverability

Despite its impressive weight and armor, the vehicle has excellent maneuverability and mobility. This was made possible by installing a significantly improved diesel engine with a power of 1000 hp. With. There is a turbocharger, liquid cooling, chassis and transmission - old, time-tested models that provide the greatest smoothness. If you look at the mock-up of the Terminator BMPT (1:35 model), it becomes obvious that the transmission was taken from the T-72/90 family of tanks with virtually no changes.

One of the main features of the new machine is its modularity. Because of this, combat modules can be mounted on almost all types of tank chassis produced in the USSR and Russia. The manufacturer states that they can also be installed on relatively light infantry fighting vehicles and even on small-tonnage marine boats. However, only time can reveal the specific possibilities for using this machine and its modifications.

In any case, available on this moment Information suggests that the massive use of this equipment among the troops will significantly reduce losses, increase the maneuverability and combat effectiveness of motorized infantry units and tank troops. The new Terminator looks even more promising. BMPT-72, to be more precise.

BMPT-72

As you can easily guess from the name, the main difference from the previous model is the type of chassis used. To be fair, it should be said that even the first model of the Terminator BMPT was already created on the basis of the widespread and technologically advanced T-72 tank, but then they decided to use the more advanced T-90. The creators returned to the original version: the T-72 has a lot of stocks of early modifications, which is important if there is a need for mass production of Terminators. In addition, the old T-72s are in service with dozens of states that will certainly be interested in purchasing the Terminator BMPT. Photos of this equipment, which regularly appear in Western media, indirectly confirm this fact.

Characteristics of the second generation

The manufacturer itself states that the weight of the second generation vehicle is 44 tons. Depending on the specific modification of the tank that was used for the conversion, the power of the installed engine varies from 800 to 1000 hp. With. The maximum speed on the highway is up to 60 km/h, on rough terrain - within 35-43 km/h. On one refueling the car can travel up to 700 km.

Unlike the BMP-2 and even the BMP-3, which, contrary to the military doctrine used in our country, are simply unrealistic to use alongside tanks, the BMPT can well be used in the front echelon. In this case, not only the tankers, but also the supplies will be happy: in fact, the Terminator’s chassis is no different from the T-72, so there will be no problems with spare parts.

You can immediately notice that the BMPT (“Terminator” drawings confirm this) is much heavier than the “pure” T-72 of the early series. This is explained by the installation of new combat modules and protection systems. The forehead and sides are covered with dynamic protection plates. The engine compartment is additionally equipped with grilles that prevent damage from cumulative grenades. Finally, to make it difficult to use ATGMs, there are jamming systems, as well as mortars for firing smoke grenades.

Simplification and unification of production

Since the production of the new machine has been greatly simplified, this model has quite noticeable differences from the previous version. The crew consists of only three people: two regular grenade launchers and their weapons were removed, leaving the driver, commander and gunner. These measures made it possible to significantly simplify the conversion of the old tank, since the layout of the armored volume remains virtually unchanged. Finally, the absence of two people will significantly simplify both the training of the crew and the combat use of the vehicle.

Armament of the second modification

As in the previous case, the entire weapon system is mounted on the turret. In general, the Terminator BMPT itself, the armament of which is disclosed in the article, completely fits into the standard T-72 shoulder strap, without requiring any modifications to the hull. Almost all turret equipment and weapons are completely identical to the first replica of the Terminator. But there are some technical nuances that significantly increase the security and combat survivability of the vehicle. Particularly noticeable is the high-quality bulletproof armor of all elements placed on the armor without exception.

The main trump card is two 30-mm 2A42 guns, which are quite reliably covered with an armored casing. Their total ammunition capacity is 850 shells. The guns are “omnivorous”; they can fire any 30-mm shells of domestic production. Firing can be carried out in two modes: rapid-fire, when the gun fires more than 500 shots per minute, and slow, when the rate of fire does not exceed 200-300 rounds per minute. Directly above the guns is a PKTM machine gun, the ammunition capacity of which is 2,100 rounds. In urban combat, it is extremely useful, providing increased protection for the BMPT-72 Terminator.

Other improvements

There were many complaints about the first model, the essence of which was the poor security of the ATGM. This time the weapons are housed in two well-armored casings, inside of which there may be 9M120-1 or 9M120-1F/4 missiles. They can effectively destroy enemy heavy armored vehicles at a distance of up to six kilometers. Control complex - B07S1. His work was well covered at the presentation of the Terminator BMPT from Zvezda.

There are sights for the gunner and commander of the combat vehicle; the sighting system also includes a barrel stabilizer and a high-quality ballistic computer to facilitate aiming and increase combat effectiveness. The vehicle commander can use the sight using a thermal imaging or television channel. The field of view is stabilized in two planes. The commander also has his own rangefinder. The gunner has access to a sight with optical and thermal imaging channels. In terms of characteristics, it is equivalent to the commander's one, but has a special laser channel for guiding guided missiles.

Since the vehicle is actually equipped with normal sighting devices of the modern level, the commander has every chance of detecting the enemy at a distance of up to five kilometers. At night, this distance is reduced to 3.5 km. The gunner has the same capabilities for detecting targets. And this is good news, since on many domestic T-72s that are in service, the gunner has Better conditions for work than even the commander, who simply does not see what is available to his subordinate.

About the prospects of the new development

Immediately after appearance new technology At exhibitions, representatives of the Ministry of Defense spoke about its prospects. Everyone has firm confidence that the machine will find its customers. One of the main highlights of the BMPT is the chassis, borrowed from the high-quality and unpretentious T-72. Since these tanks are used everywhere, customers will not have to spend much on retraining mechanics and crews.

An interesting feature of the new technology is that it was initially created not only from the standpoint of building new vehicles, but also with an eye to converting tanks already in service. There is also official information from the manufacturer, which indicates its readiness to supply customers not only with finished vehicles, but also with conversion kits with a team of engineers who can convert old T-72s on site. Firstly, this approach will cost several times less. Secondly, on-site specialists will be better able to adapt the equipment they are remaking to local realities.

Possible shortcomings and complaints

The level of protection, when compared with the previous model, remained at a similar level. Hypothetically, the abandonment of automatic grenade launchers could still play a negative role. But this circumstance is unlikely to scare away potential customers. In general, some complaints about the first “Terminator” simply boiled down to the fact that it was stupid to keep two additional crew members just for the sake of 40-mm grenade launchers. And the point here is not so much the combat effectiveness of such weapons, which is very high, but the limited aiming angles.

In principle, the characteristics of the barrel and missile weapons on this model is no worse than that on its predecessor, so there should be no complaints in this matter. This is largely explained by the fact that the developers really tried not only to develop a simple tank conversion project, but also took into account all the comments about the previous version. Judge for yourself: convert it into a new type of weapon with minimal effort and expense - what could be better?

By the way, the new vehicle even appeared in the game Armored Warfare. The Terminator BMPT is clearly being “pushed” into international arms markets using all available media. However, in “real life” everything is fine: field tests of the new equipment have already been carried out, as a result of which our military became very interested in its capabilities on the battlefield. We can only hope that the Russian military will also receive this equipment (in case of a positive decision on its production) in the required quantity.

The need for this kind of BMPT is obvious, since in urban battles it will not only be able to effectively cover other heavy armored vehicles, but also act independently, being an extremely effective combat unit.

Original taken from andrei_bt in Tank to the rescue part 1 and 2

As for the BMPT, the car is certainly interesting and would have its own niche in modern wars. But the question is what kind of BMPT.

Few people remember that they were the first to create it at the GSKB ChTZ in the 80s, about which there were a number of publications in the Bulletin of Armored Equipment.

A vehicle with two weapon options was created - Tank support combat vehicle: history and prospects. Well, it’s the 90s, everything is clear. Then UKBTM got down to business, threw out all the developments of the Chelyabinsk people and made the BMPT "Frame-99" as we know it, in my opinion much worse than in the GSKB version. It would be better to leave it as it is and not change anything, but no, so they can’t sell it to anyone except Kazakhstan. Although even such an BMPT is better than none. And for the future, what kind of BMPT if there is a T-15 Heavy infantry fighting vehicle T-15.

Tank to the rescue - part I

What will replace shaitan-arba in the 21st century

Sergey Mayev - head of weapons operation and military equipment RF Armed Forces - Head of the GABTU (1996-2004), Colonel General. Published in the magazine http://vpk-news.ru/

IN last years The tank support combat vehicle (BMPT) receives exceptional attention at various exhibitions and shows. A high level of security is combined with serious fire capabilities to destroy or suppress enemy personnel and other, mainly ground targets. But her future, oddly enough, is still in question.

The BMPT incorporates new design solutions based on modern scientific achievements and technological capabilities. As a fresh direction in the development of armored weapons and equipment (APT), it is of interest to both specialists in the organization of combat operations and developers of weapons and military equipment.

BMPTs were created to increase the efficiency of combat missions by infantry units and subunits, to significantly reduce personnel losses, and armored vehicles. The TTZ included capabilities that are higher than those of existing heavy armored vehicles in terms of the density of fire impact on enemy infantry at distances of up to 1,500 meters, mobility and crew protection. Design features provide better combat survivability than in a tank, and even more so in an infantry fighting vehicle.
The vehicle has all-round protection, a powerful weapon system designed to engage and suppress enemy anti-tank weapons (ATWs) in the “see-and-shoot” mode, and is capable of destroying tanks, other protected equipment and low-flying targets at a distance of up to five kilometers before they strike.
But until now, most military experts considered BMPTs solely as a means of reducing combat losses of tanks. The name of the car suggests this conclusion. Unfortunately, this was precisely the reason for the negative attitude towards the BMPT. Critics reasoned simply: what support could a vehicle with two 30 mm cannons provide to a mighty tank?

Wedge with wedge

The experience of using tanks in the First and especially in the Second World War showed that without infantry escort, “armor” suffers heavy losses. In this regard, the so-called tank landing appeared. He provided cover from enemy infantry armed with light anti-tank weapons and solved the problem of capturing settlements, defensive lines and objects, using tank breakthroughs in the enemy’s tactical defense zone and operations in operational depth.
The need for a comprehensive organization of interaction between tanks and infantry was clearly expressed in the order of the People's Commissar of Defense of the USSR No. 325 of October 16, 1942 “On combat use tank and mechanized units and formations." It states: the practice of the war against the German fascists showed that we had serious shortcomings in the use of tank units. During the attack, our tanks broke away from the infantry and lost interaction with them. And the cut off infantry did not support the armored vehicles with their fire and artillery fire. As a result, both tankers and infantrymen suffered heavy losses.
Now the situation is much more difficult than in World War II, which is due to the widespread proliferation of automatic small arms. The rate of fire of machine guns and machine guns increased, small-caliber guns appeared, but with the most effective impact of ammunition on targets. Automatic hand grenade launchers became standard weapons in every infantry squad, and rocket-propelled anti-tank grenades and RPGs with cumulative and high-explosive fragmentation ammunition became standard weapons for every soldier. The presence of such an arsenal of weapons on the battlefield creates unbearable conditions for the soldier, no matter what personal protective equipment you equip him with.
A deeper analysis of the nature of modern battles gives every reason to consider BMPTs as the main means of reducing losses, primarily of personnel of mechanized and motorized rifle formations in a clash with the enemy. But then why is the BMPT’s path to production so thorny despite its undeniable need?
The logic of opponents of the innovation is simple: what kind of tank is it if it needs cover and support? It actually worked quite often high level and determined further attitude towards development.
To find out the truth, let's return to the history of the creation of tanks. Their appearance on the fields of the First World War is not accidental and is associated with the emergence of semi-automatic and automatic small arms, primarily machine guns and mortars, the increased power of engineering barriers, and the saturation of the warring armies with artillery.
The main task of tanks is to support infantry when breaking through enemy defenses. They moved ahead of the attackers, destroying barriers with cannon and machine-gun fire, and paralyzed the will of the enemy with a terrifying appearance. The effectiveness of the impact when the British broke through the German defenses on the Somme River on September 15, 1916 (32 tanks) and the Battle of Cambrai on November 20, 1917 (476 tanks) was stunning. However, this did not give the expected results. Having made a hole in the defense for 10-15 kilometers, the tanks stopped, because without the support of infantry and light artillery their offensive was bogged down. During the operational pause, the Germans counterattacked and regained lost positions.
First world war began to create tank groups. They included a heavy breakthrough tank, ammunition and fuel transporter tanks, artillery tractor tanks... By the end of 1917, the MK-9 appeared, an infantry transporter tank. In World War II, large tank formations and formations, “wedges,” appeared. They were already developing operational success in the depths of the enemy’s defense. This experience made significant changes to the Army's weapons system. An intensive search began to counteract their main striking force. Creation came to the fore powerful system anti-tank defense. It was based on new portable ATGMs such as “Shmel”, “Malyutka”, hand grenade launchers and rocket-propelled anti-tank grenades (from RPG-7 to RPG-23, RPG-26, RPG-28), and other means. Similar weapons also appeared among the enemy and began to be used en masse.
The concept of “tank-dangerous manpower” was born - personnel armed with modern portable ATGMs, RPGs, automatic small arms of conventional and large caliber, capable of using them effectively at a distance of up to 1000 meters and well protected. The threat turned out to be fatal. Possessing powerful, but essentially single-channel weapons, the tanks could not effectively fight such a significant and massive factor as “tank-dangerous manpower,” due to design features.
In addition, in tanks, armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles, only one crew member can fire from the main type of weapon, even if more dangerous targets are detected by others. The tanks' ammunition load is relatively small; it is irrational to use it to perform essentially artillery tasks - hitting area targets, including those saturated with poorly observable "tank-dangerous manpower."
Countering it is relevant when conducting combat operations not only with regular armies, but also with illegal armed groups, as evidenced by the experience of local conflicts in Iraq, Yemen, and Syria. The insurgents have a quarter more PTS capable of causing damage to armored vehicles than in the regular army, and their specific gravity sometimes amounted to 95 percent of all weapons available in the illegal armed formations.
In this regard, in order to effectively carry out combat missions in the forward echelon, the need arose to have a vehicle moving in line with tanks (or slightly ahead), with powerful multi-channel automatic weapons, capable of taking on the destruction of enemy “tank-dangerous” infantry, thereby significantly reducing the likelihood of damage to personnel and armored vehicles.

Targets and goals

The need to solve the problems of interaction between infantry and tanks in new combat conditions led to a wonderful idea - to create a special armored vehicle. This is how the infantry fighting vehicle appeared, the main purpose of which is to transport motorized riflemen to the place of combat missions, increase the mobility, firepower and security of mechanized units on the battlefield, as well as joint action with tanks, including when using weapons of mass destruction.
IN Soviet army BMPs appeared in the early 60s, then they began to be equipped with the ground forces of many countries. Infantry fighting vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles and vehicles based on them have increased the combat effectiveness of both combined arms formations and units, as well as formations of branches and branches of the Armed Forces, primarily due to greater mobility. BMP-1, BMP-2, BMP-3 became the basis of motorized rifle formations and units. By the end of the 80s, the USSR Armed Forces had about 20 thousand infantry fighting vehicles. They improved rapidly.

But simultaneously with infantry fighting vehicles, means of destroying them were intensively developed. An attempt to save a soldier in a lightly armored corps led to the opposite result. The hit of even one shell from a small-caliber gun, a rocket-propelled anti-tank grenade, an explosion on a mine or an IED caused the detonation of ammunition, a fire and the death of not just one soldier, as happens in open areas, but groups of up to 10 people. As a result, motorized riflemen were afraid to move inside the vehicle even on the march, in the absence of the danger of shelling. When conducting combat operations in Afghanistan and the North Caucasus, it was impossible to ensure that the infantry fighting vehicles were stationed in regular places. Everyone was on "armor", just like during the Great Patriotic War. The unsuitability of infantry fighting vehicles as a means of supporting and protecting infantry was especially convincingly demonstrated in Grozny in December 1994 - January 1995.
Not only modernization, but also attempts to create a new type of heavy infantry fighting vehicles to improve the protection of the crew and troops were made earlier and are quite active now. As a rule, they result in a significant increase in the weight and dimensions of the infantry fighting vehicle, which not only reduces its main advantage - high maneuverability, but also maintains the same probability of death of a motorized rifle squad inside the vehicle.
We must not forget that the saturation of the battlefield with promising, more powerful means of fire will increase and they will “get” the personnel inside the armored vehicles before approaching the attack line.
In such conditions, infantry will dismount and march over long distances, which will significantly reduce the effectiveness of motorized rifle subunits and units. With the transition to the attack, the probability of the death of the infantry fighting vehicle will be even higher due to the massive use of RPGs by the enemy on the first line of defense.
As a participant in combat operations in Afghanistan, I know that not a single operation, including the movement of convoys, fighting in the mountains or “greenery”, the provision of outposts and posts, the protection of deployment points and routes, was not carried out without the participation of armored vehicles. Then the question arose about the need to have in combat formations, in addition to standard tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers, a special highly protected, primarily against RPGs, vehicle with powerful small arms.
The modernization carried out - strengthening the protection of the T-62 and using it as a fire weapon to cover motorized rifle units - did not solve the problem. Tankers, operating at a great distance, especially in the mountains, among duvals and adobe buildings, could not timely detect and localize close combat fire weapons. The tank became priority goal for dushmans. But the worst of all was the infantry fighting vehicles loaded with infantry. The defeat of one infantry fighting vehicle immediately claimed the lives of five to seven paratroopers. A striking example of heavy losses of personnel in infantry fighting vehicles is the operation of the 860th separate motorized rifle regiment in Afghanistan in 1984.
There was an urgent need for a vehicle with powerful firepower, capable of destroying dangerous enemy personnel at a distance of up to two kilometers, and covering infantry and paratroopers with its fire. This is what the four-barreled anti-aircraft gun became then self-propelled gun ZSU-23-4 “Shilka”, nicknamed “Shaitan-arba” by the dushmans.
The targets of destruction were the Mujahideen, who had settled in with machine guns, machine guns, hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers, and MANPADS behind duvals, in mountain crevices, karizs, buildings, and green areas. The Shilka's fire literally swept away the enemy and was the best protection for the infantry, wherever it was: in the field, in infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, and in vehicles. Whenever possible, the ZSU-23-4 was used everywhere: when leading columns, conducting combat operations, in the desert and green areas, protecting communications and guard garrisons, and troop locations. Her disadvantage was that her armor was too weak.
The first experience in creating a vehicle that would provide more reliable crew protection and infantry support than an infantry fighting vehicle was carried out at the Omsk Transport Engineering Design Bureau.

Tank to the rescue - part II

Who stands in the way of the Terminator?

Sergey Mayev

Chief of Operation of Arms and Military Equipment of the RF Armed Forces - Head of the GABTU (1996-2004), Colonel General

The large number of obsolete T-55 tanks available in Russia, which were converted into BTR-T (heavy armored personnel carrier), would have saturated the army with relatively inexpensive and highly protected infantry fighting vehicles.

What made them different? The BTR-T has a reinforced hull bottom to increase crew survivability in the event of an anti-tank mine explosion. This was ensured by additional armor, while the sheet was welded with an indentation; the air gap significantly reduced the effect of the blast wave. Converting the T-55 to the BTR-T was cheap. But the vehicle was poorly armed and did not enter service with the troops.

Out of the box

In the mid-80s, taking into account the experience of operations in Afghanistan, specialists from the Military Academy of Armored Forces and the 38th Research Institute of the USSR Ministry of Defense formulated the main directions for the creation of BMPT. A concept and operational-tactical justification (OTO) for its use in tank and motorized rifle units were developed.
In 1987, the main contractor for the work was GSKB-2 of the Chelyabinsk Tractor Plant. When modeling the technical appearance of the vehicle, the designers developed several layout options that differed in the location of the engine and transmission compartment, the composition and placement of weapons.
To clarify the general technical specifications for the use of the BMPT and its technical appearance, in 1989 they tested three experimental variants when solving fire and tactical tasks, selected the optimal appearance of the vehicle, and in 1991 developed tactical and technical specifications (TTZ) for performing R&D under the code “Frame”.
Under the leadership of the chief designer of GSKB-2, Valery Vershinsky, they quickly completed technical design and created working design documentation. However, due to the difficult financial situation, work was stopped.
The next impetus for the creation of the BMPT was the results of the use of armored vehicles in the first Chechen war. When troops were brought into Grozny on December 31, 1994, to enhance the fire impact, as in Afghanistan, the Tunguska air defense system was used as part of motorized rifle units. But they turned out to be the first targets of militants with RPG-7. Naturally, the task of providing fire cover for the troops was not solved.
Again, as in Afghanistan, there was talk about the need to have vehicles with powerful fire capabilities in combat formations. The requirements were clarified, but the main ones, as before, were:

• achieving a level of crew protection and vehicle combat survivability higher than that of tanks;


• equipping with a multi-channel weapon system capable of concentrating fire and simultaneously hitting several targets in a circle;


• ensuring continuous all-round surveillance of the battlefield and effective detection of tank-dangerous targets;


• giving the vehicle a level of mobility higher than that of tanks;


• high ergonomic performance;


• the highest possible operational and production unification with tanks in service or in development.

However, an attempt to continue work at ChTZ was unsuccessful. The plant went into bankruptcy and stopped developing armored vehicles.
In 1998, R&D under the code “Frame-99” was resumed at the Ural Design Bureau of Transport Engineering (UKBTM) in Nizhny Tagil. At the technical design stage, we analyzed many schemes, both our own and predecessors, in order to select the optimal option that combines multi-channel weapons with large ammunition, vehicle protection from all angles, a highly effective search system, target detection and fire control using the base of the T-72B tank /T-90.
By the beginning of 2000, an experimental model was created. After analyzing the comments of representatives of the Ministry of Defense and specialists from other departments, the TTZ was clarified. Over the next two years, the BMPT design was significantly redesigned, and by July 2002 a prototype was produced. The design discoveries implemented in it contributed to a significant increase in combat and technical characteristics products.

Kazakhstani upgrade T-72

A distinctive feature of our design in comparison with foreign analogues is that it is not a means of transporting infantry; a squad of 10 motorized rifles is not squeezed into it, as was the case, for example, in an infantry fighting vehicle. The lack of landing forces was made up for by combat capabilities. Five firing channels ensured the simultaneous destruction of three targets at a distance of up to 1700 meters. In terms of firepower, the vehicle was superior to two motorized rifle platoons, the BMPT was capable of hitting not only enemy infantry, but also armored vehicles, long-term fire installations, shelters and low-flying air targets thanks to the gun's elevation angle of 450. A large arsenal ensured combat operations for a long time. Low profile the hull and uninhabited fighting compartment create a level of security and mobility higher than that of a tank. Four optical observation and aiming channels, all-round panorama, high turret rotation speed, constant readiness to fire with automatic weapons, the possibility of long-term non-stop firing - all this guarantees the timely detection and defeat of the enemy’s “tank-dangerous” manpower. The range of aimed fire from a cannon with an armor-piercing projectile is up to 2000 meters, with a high-explosive fragmentation projectile - up to 4000 meters, and with a course automatic grenade launcher - up to 1700 meters. Two cannons and machine guns installed in the conning tower provide all-round destruction of manpower, armored targets and well-protected shelters. The elevation angle of the weapon unit at 450 allows you to shoot at targets on the upper floors of buildings or at commanding heights in the mountains. Four launchers supersonic ATGM "Attack" with a highly interference-protected semi-automatic guidance system in an information laser control field have a firing range of up to six kilometers and penetrate up to 1000 millimeters of homogeneous armor. The radius of complete destruction of a high-explosive fragmentation grenade is seven meters.
The car successfully passed state tests in 2006. The State Commission was headed by the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces, one of the most authoritative experts in combat operations in local conflicts, who was twice wounded in Afghanistan and received “ Gold Star» Hero Russian Federation for the leadership of the counter-terrorist operation in the North Caucasus, Colonel General Vladimir Bulgakov. Despite this, no decision was made to equip the Ground Forces with BMPTs.
UKBTM designers continued to improve the BMPT, firmly convinced of its necessity. A new requirement has been added - to use BMPT to fight terrorist groups. To do this, it is necessary to clarify the conditions for combat use and adjust the design of the vehicle, the sighting and observation system, the fire control system, remove the task of destroying armored targets, and adapt the BMPT to close-range combat against infantry equipped with small arms and grenade launchers.
A further impetus for the development of BMPT for NPO Uralvagonzavod, as in its time with the T-90 tank, was the signing of an agreement for the supply of BMPT abroad.
Tests carried out by specialists from the Kazakh army to assess the combat capabilities of the vehicle both against regular troops and illegal armed groups confirmed its uniqueness, versatility and high efficiency. In terms of combat potential, it replaces 2-2.5 infantry fighting vehicles or 3-4 armored personnel carriers. According to one of the leaders of the Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan, the BMPT is a universal vehicle for supporting personnel of motorized rifle and tank units in offensive and defensive operations.
It came to the signing of a bilateral agreement on the creation of the BMPT. At the same time, they decided to develop a cheaper option based on the T-72 tanks, which are available in sufficient quantities in the Republic of Kazakhstan. As a result, UKBTM created the BMPT-72, which later received the name “Terminator-2”. The peculiarity is that the modification of the T-72 tank is minimal. This and a number of other measures can significantly reduce the cost of the vehicle and increase its combat effectiveness. The only doubt that arises is that the design of Terminator-2 lacks two installations of automatic grenade launchers, located in the bow of the vehicle’s hull on the right and left sides.

Together with "Solntsepek"

Another direction in the development of BMPT is expanding the scope of combat use. At the beginning of the 21st century, a new threat appeared: strike forces of terrorist groups. To combat them, UKBTM proposed a simplified version of the BMPT - BKM-1 and BKM-2 (counter-terrorism combat vehicle). When creating them, the designers proceeded from the conditions of use, which made it possible to abandon expensive fire control systems, surveillance devices, target reconnaissance and aiming. The weapon system is also being optimized. At the same time, protection for combat in urban environments is being improved. The vehicle has the ability to covertly approach terrorist positions and deliver a powerful strike from the spot, from cover. It has a smaller fuel supply, which means higher fire safety and more ammunition. To clear debris, obstacles or barricades, a bulldozer blade is installed.
Of course, for the effective use of the vehicle in the combat formations of the Ground Forces, a well-developed regulatory and methodological base is required. Based on the experience of Afghanistan and other local conflicts, specialists from the Military Academy of Armored Forces named after. R. Ya. Malinovsky, the 38th Research Institute of the Ministry of Defense and the State Military Training Institution of the Ground Forces worked out methods of using BMPTs and identified a niche in the organizational structure of motorized rifle and tank units. It was planned to create motorized armored groups consisting of tanks, infantry fighting vehicles and infantry fighting vehicles. Tanks and BMPTs are on the front line of combat contact with the enemy, destroying firing points and strongholds. BMPs with infantry are in the second echelon, holding the taken lines.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces, Army General Alexei Maslov, back in 2008, outlined the place of the BMPT in the structure of the Ground Forces and the procedure for its combat use: “We are working on various options the use of these machines, the need for the appearance of which in the combat formations of troops has been long overdue. Either as the third vehicle in each tank platoon, or as a separate unit supporting the operations of the tank battalion. Previously, protection of tanks from destruction by anti-tank weapons on the battlefield was provided by motorized rifle landings. Now this task will be performed by a BMPT armed with two 30-mm cannons, two automatic grenade launchers and a machine gun.”
The most effective, in my opinion, option for using BMPTs was demonstrated during exercises by the armed forces of Kazakhstan. There's a composition special unit introduced the heavy flamethrower system TOS-1A "Solntsepek" and BMPT. Acting in tandem, the Solntsepek burned out the enemy, and the BMPT was followed by a subsequent “cleansing” of strong points. Motorized rifle units occupy and hold areas of terrain or specific objects.
It would seem that there are more than enough arguments in favor of equipping the RF Armed Forces with a tank support combat vehicle. Why is there still no BMPT in the army?
Probably, everything was decided by the position of the ex-chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Nikolai Makarov. The previous leadership of the Ministry of Defense did not find a place for the BMPT in the army structure.
Previous ministers of defense and chiefs of the General Staff - Pavel Grachev, Igor Rodionov, Viktor Dubynin, Anatoly Kvashnin, active participants in combat operations and leaders of the Armed Forces during the creation of the BMPT, were in favor of the vehicle being adopted not only by the Ground Forces. Let me remind you that the decision to create the BMPT took place in the wake of the events in Afghanistan and the Chechen Republic, when it became obvious that this vehicle was extremely necessary for the warring units. But if real experience gained in hot spots is not an argument, then, as a rule, they turn to scientific research, which determines the nature of combat operations and weapons systems necessary to achieve a given result. Unfortunately, this has not happened yet either.

After modification - robot

Based on many years of research, military scientists and specialists developed the Concept of Tank-Armored Infantry Integration, in which they made recommendations for changing the organizational structure of the troops. In particular, it is proposed to move from a purely tank unit to integrated armored units and units of the Ground Forces. The project has been completed and proposed for consideration by the author of the fundamental work “Tanks” (2015), Major General Oleg Brilev. Doctor of Technical Sciences, professor, he devoted his entire life to research into the creation and combat use of tanks. The concept is based on the theory of combat and military-economic efficiency as the main tool used in decision-making for equipping the Armed Forces with types and types of weapons and military equipment. It is supported by mathematical analysis of combat operations and data from modeling the process of creating weapons and military equipment. The necessary result achieved by combining the costs incurred during the combat use of a certain number of different types of armored vehicles with their properties was also taken into account. As a result, the combat value of each model in the general grouping of armored weapons and equipment was determined. The researchers came to an unequivocal conclusion: it is advisable to combine various types of armored vehicles with their combat characteristics and properties, determined by a quantitative ratio in the structure of the unit and units of the Ground Forces.
The theory of combat and economic effectiveness makes it possible to determine the optimal combination of types and types of weapons and military equipment in the structure of the Ground Forces to achieve maximum or acceptable combat results in actions against various enemy groups, depending on terrain conditions, the qualitative and quantitative ratio of the warring parties. Instead of purely tank units, several options are offered for creating integrated units (company, battalion) operating against heterogeneous enemy forces with the task of achieving maximum success.
The need to have an armored vehicle that differs in combat properties from a tank in the front line of defending or advancing tank units was also confirmed by another prominent scientist in the field of tank force tactics, Doctor of Military Sciences, Professor of the 38th Central Research Institute of the Russian Defense Ministry Nikolai Shishkin. In his work “Tanks in Local Wars and Armed Conflicts,” he writes that the BMPT, operating in the battle line ahead due to greater stealth and special weapons, makes it possible to maintain interaction with tanks and prevent their destruction, starting from the line of transition to the attack, as well as when breaking through fortified positions on the front line and in the depths of the enemy’s defense.
In this regard, it must be added that powerful protection from all angles makes the BMPT a hard-to-hit target, which allows it to operate effectively in conditions of massive use of anti-tank weapons. The presence of large ammunition for the 30-mm automatic cannon (850 rounds) makes it possible to fire long time at a high rate (600-800 rounds/min) and creates a high-explosive fragmentation field that significantly exceeds the capabilities of the Shilka self-propelled gun.
It is also worth noting that the design of the BMPT allows, with minor modifications, to make the vehicle a fully robotic combat system.
Remotely controlled remote weapons of the BMPT combat module are the first step towards creating a robotic “Terminator” based on it. The development of such a machine will make it possible to remove people from the front line and thereby significantly reduce losses among personnel.
Today the problem is no longer whether an BMPT is needed or not. A delay in its adoption and delivery to the troops could result in a lot of blood shed by our tank crews and motorized riflemen on the battlefield.