The Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is set to receive the first BTR-82AT armoured personnel carriers (APCs) this year, a military source told Janes on the first day of the Army 2019 defence exhibition being held in Kubinka near Moscow between 25–30 June.
The Russian MoD is set to receive its first BTR-82AT APCs, one of which is displayed at Army 2019. (Dmitry Fediushko)
In early April Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu revealed the MoD’s intention to procure the upgraded APCs. “Starting in 2019, all BTR-82As will receive an upgraded fire-control system with a thermal imager and additional ballistic protection,” Shoigu said at an MoD board meeting.
Military-Industrial Company (VPK) general director Alexander Krasovitskiy told Jane’s at Army 2019 on 25 June that the BTR-82AT had already completed trials. “The APC upgraded to the BTR-82AT standard is ready for production and delivery. We are waiting for a contract to be issued by the MoD,” he said.
Unlike the baseline BTR-82A, the BTR-82AT is fitted with the TKN-4GA sighting system with a thermal imager and stabilised field of view. The APC carries a 9K129 tripod-mounted anti-tank guided missile system for the 9M133 Kornet missile in its troop compartment.
The upgraded APC has retained the main specifications of the basic vehicle, while its hull is further protected by applique armour plates and bar-slat armour. “The BTR-82AT provides all-around protection against DShK and Browning M2 heavy machine guns,” VPK said.
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