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Russia proposes BMP-3 for Indian Army’s FICV Program to replace outdated BMP-2 fleet

Source : IgMp Bureau

Russia proposes BMP-3 for Indian Army’s FICV Program to replace outdated BMP-2 fleet

                                                            

Russia is preparing to offer its BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) for India's ambitious Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) initiative, which aims to replace the aging BMP-2 fleet that has supported the Indian Army's Mechanised Infantry since the 1980s. This FICV project is a crucial modernization strategy designed to enhance the Army's operational capabilities, particularly amid ongoing border tensions and escalating security challenges.


The Indian Army launched the FICV program to phase out its outdated BMP-2 vehicles, which have surpassed their effective operational lifespan. The BMP-2s have been extensively utilized, especially along the northern borders to address China's cross-border activities. However, these vehicles face several drawbacks, such as insufficient night-fighting capabilities, lack of modern sensors, and absence of anti-drone systems—key factors in today’s warfare landscape.


The envisioned FICV is a modular and upgradable platform that allows for straightforward future enhancements through simple modifications. It must fulfill several critical requirements outlined by the Army in its Request for Information (RFI), including amphibious capabilities, advanced laser warning systems, active protection systems, and an unmanned weapon turret. The armament configuration should comprise a 30mm automatic cannon, fire-and-forget top-attack anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), and a stabilized remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) with a 12.7mm caliber. Additionally, the vehicle is expected to maintain high mobility, featuring a power-to-weight ratio of 30hp per tonne and a combat load capacity of 2.5 tonnes, all while accommodating an 11-member crew.



The Russian BMP-3 is a tracked, amphibious infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) that aligns well with the requirements of the Indian Army’s FICV program. Designed as a successor to the BMP-1 and BMP-2, the BMP-3 entered service in 1990 and quickly gained recognition for its impressive firepower, mobility, and adaptability. With Russia presenting the BMP-3 for the FICV initiative, it emerges as a tested platform boasting substantial firepower and modern capabilities.


The BMP-3’s armament includes a 100mm cannon-missile launcher, a 30mm automatic cannon, and a 7.62mm machine gun integrated into a weapon station, delivering formidable firepower across various combat scenarios. Additionally, it is equipped with two 7.62mm hull-mounted machine guns. The vehicle can also feature advanced fire-control systems with modern sighting technologies such as the SOZh-M, Vesna-K, or Sodema, enhancing operational effectiveness in both day/night and low-visibility situations. Furthermore, the BMP-3 can be outfitted with the AST-B automatic target tracker to improve targeting accuracy.


A significant advantage of the BMP-3 is its ability to fire accurately while moving, enabled by its two-plane weapon stabilizer. This capability allows the vehicle to engage targets effectively while traversing off-road at speeds of up to 30 km/h and even in water under Sea State 1 conditions. Its amphibious capacity, paired with advanced firepower and sighting systems, positions it as a strong candidate for the FICV program.


Despite the advantages presented by the BMP-3, the FICV project is anticipated to face considerable competition from various international and domestic options. The Indian government’s focus on indigenization through the "Make in India" initiative indicates that Russia's offering will likely need to include substantial local manufacturing and technology transfer agreements to remain competitive. Additionally, the Indian Army will have to weigh the benefits of established foreign platforms like the BMP-3 against the potential of developing a domestic solution tailored specifically to its operational requirements.


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