BRDM-NIC, an improved version of BRDM-2 armoured reconnaissance vehicle, was unveiled at XIV Arms and Security International Exhibition held in Kyiv, Ukraine, in October 2017.
The new variant was developed by state enterprise Nicholas Armored Plant, a part of the Ukroborprom, as per the requirements of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
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The vehicle is intended to offer enhanced firepower and protection capabilities over its predecessor. It will be used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces to perform reconnaissance and combat missions.
BRDM-NIC combat vehicle design and features
The BRDM-NIC armoured vehicle is based on four-wheel drive chassis. It is 5.7m-long, 2.7m-wide and 2.71m-high, and has a wheel base of 3.1m and combat weight of 8.2t.
The vehicle’s crew comprises a driver, commander and gunner. The commander and gunner stations are located in the front of the hull, while the gunner sits next to the driver.
Two hatches are provided with a firing port each above commander and driver seats on the roof of the vehicle.
A power-operated ramp is placed on the right side of the hull to enable easy entrance and exit by the troops, while an additional ramp is fitted at the rear.
Armament of BRDM-NIC
The BRDM-NIC combat reconnaissance vehicle variant features a remotely operated turret to provide increased firepower. Located in the middle of the roof, the turret is armed with two 23mm automatic cannons coupled with a 7.62mm machine gun.
The vehicle can be optionally equipped with a 14.5mm large-calibre heavy machine gun and a 7.62mm light machine gun to fight against light and heavily armoured targets, aircraft, military installations, as well as other stationary and moving targets up to a range of 2km.
Protection capabilities of BRDM-NIC armoured vehicle
The modernised BRDM armoured reconnaissance vehicle has improved protection capabilities over BRDM-2.
The vehicle’s rolled homogeneous armour, made of armoured steel plates, offers high-level ballistic and blast protection for the occupants against bullets, armour piercing ammunition, and anti-tank rocket-propelled grenades.
Observation and fire control
The gunner cupola carries four observation devices to assist in aiming weapons, surveillance, and identification and engagement of targets both during day and night. Additionally, three periscopes are mounted on the right side of the hull for the gunner.
Periscopes are mounted in the driver and commander hatches to provide them a clear view of the surrounding terrain.
An improved fire control system is installed to increase the combat effectiveness of the vehicle. New digital radios are installed to provide reliable and secure communication.
The modernised variant of the BRDM-2 also features thermal imaging and video cameras, headlights and tail lights.
Powertrain
Located in the forward section of the vehicle, the powerplant consists of a FPT Tector IVECO diesel engine, which produces an output power of 150hp. The engine is built to Euro-3 emission standards.
The vehicle is fitted with four standard pneumatic wheels, which are designed to offer increased mobility on off-road driving conditions. A spare tyre is attached at the rear to enhance the safety of the vehicle.
A welded independent suspension with two-circuit brake system is provided to offer a high level of protection for the occupants while running on uneven surfaces.
BRDM-NIC mobility
The BRDM-NIC combat reconnaissance vehicle is capable of travelling at a speed of 100km/h and has a cruising range of 1,100km.
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