A report by ArmyInform from Ukrainian frontlines describes a combat vehicle that is based on an old Soviet BRDM-2 but completely overhauled for better mobility and versatility. It is currently used by the troops of the 100th Brigade of Territorial Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
"Completely" – because according to the driver Maksym, "the transmission and the drivetrain are all that's left of the old Soviet BRDM-2 here." He says, the vehicle's poor specifications which were "absolutely out of touch with nowadays requirements" called for an upgrade, and so it was done by the hands of the brigade's military engineers and volunteers.
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The modernized BRDM-2 got a new German engine from a Mercedes truck, diesel replaced petroleum. The engine cooling and hydraulic power steering systems were improved. As mentioned, the gearbox is yet a Soviet one, so the vehicle can only reach a top speed of 60 km/h (37 mph) on the road but it will be replaced soon.
A more powerful engine enabled to put more armor on the hull. On the flip side, to make it lighter, the engineers took off the water jets and replacement wheels.
The ergonomics were enhanced by making hatches on the sides, and the floor was straightened so it could accommodate wounded soldiers for evacuation or carry bulky cargo.
The turret got replaced with a similar type stripped off a destroyed russian BTR. Now it can fire both day and night and elevate to aim open fire at aerial targets.
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