Russia's TASS news agency reported that preliminary tests of the cutting-edge BT-3F amphibious armored transport vehicle have entered the final stages, and the company is ready for mass production. Rostec told TASS that the vehicle was tested at sea and underwent firing tests, which proved it could withstand external shocks, including those of conventional weapons. Kurgan Mashzavod has already made preparations for the production of vehicles. Once the BT-3F armored personnel carrier has been contracted for delivery to the troops, it can be mass-produced.
The BT-3F from kurganmashzavod JSC is a Marine Corps combat vehicle designed to transport Marine Infantry (up to 14 people) and is also used to provide fire support. It is based on the BMP-3F infantry fighting vehicle with improved amphibious capabilities. It does not have the turret of the BMP-3F, but has a raised superstructure similar to the 1V172-2 gun control vehicle. Conceptually, it resembles the aging Soviet BTR-50P. Based on the chassis of the PT-76 amphibious light tank, the BTR-50P acts as an APC, placing passengers on benches behind the protected crew compartment.
The BT-3F can be launched at sea from amphibious assault ships. Specially designed for offshore operations with improved seaworthiness and buoyancy, the ability to move with the accuracy required for offshore state 3 and offshore state 2. Its main role was to transport Marines from warships to the coast under armor protection. The BT-3F also intends to serve as a pioneer in beachhead positions, securing the coastline for ongoing troops. Once ashore, the BT-3F can be used for patrolling, guarding checkpoints, and carrying troops and supplies further inland. The vehicle weighed more than 18 tons, and its armor provided all-round protection against large-caliber machine guns.
The BT-3F retains the engine and transmission of the BMP-3. It is powered by a UTD-29 diesel engine that develops 500 horsepower. The engine is mounted behind the body. This armored personnel carrier has an oil and gas suspension system that can be adjusted to suit the type of ground being traversed. This armored personnel carrier is completely amphibious. On the water, it is propelled by two columns of water. The vehicle is equipped with a built-in self-trench blade and can prepare its own defensive position. This armored personnel carrier is equipped with a remote control weapons station and is equipped with 7.62, 12.7 and 14.5 mm machine guns. Or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.