BRDM-2

The BRDM-2 (Boyevaya Razvedyvatelnaya Dozornaya Mashina-2, literally "Combat Reconnaissance Patrol Vehicle-2") is an amphibious armored scout car used by Russia and the former Soviet Union, as well as many other nations. It is the successor to the earlier BRDM-1.

Overview

The BRDM-2 is a 4x4 wheeled vehicle designed primarily for reconnaissance and patrol duties. It features improved amphibious capabilities compared to its predecessor, achieved through a more streamlined hull and a water jet propulsion system. The vehicle is typically armed with a 14.5mm KPV heavy machine gun and a 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun mounted in a small turret.

Design and Features

• Mobility: The BRDM-2's 4x4 configuration allows for relatively good cross-country mobility, supplemented by a central tire inflation system to adjust tire pressure to suit terrain conditions. Two belly wheels located between the front and rear axles can be lowered to improve obstacle crossing capabilities. Amphibious capabilities are enabled by a water jet located at the rear of the vehicle.
• Armament: The standard armament consists of a 14.5mm KPV heavy machine gun for engaging lightly armored targets and personnel, and a 7.62mm PKT machine gun for close-in defense. The turret can rotate 360 degrees, allowing for all-around fire coverage.
• Protection: The BRDM-2 provides limited protection against small arms fire and shrapnel. The vehicle's armor is relatively thin compared to main battle tanks and other heavier armored vehicles.
• Crew: The typical crew consists of four personnel: a commander, a driver, a gunner, and an observer.
• Variants: Numerous variants of the BRDM-2 exist, modified for various roles such as anti-tank missile carriers, command vehicles, and NBC reconnaissance vehicles. These variants often feature different armament, communication equipment, and sensor suites.

Service History

The BRDM-2 has seen widespread use in conflicts around the world, serving with the armed forces of numerous countries throughout the Cold War and in subsequent regional conflicts. Its versatility and amphibious capabilities made it a valuable asset for reconnaissance and patrol missions in a variety of environments.

Operators

The BRDM-2 has been exported to a large number of countries, including but not limited to: Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Belarus, Egypt, Syria, Cuba, and many others. Many of these nations continue to operate the vehicle in various roles.