Combined 125mm Gun/Missile Main Armament
JSC Rosoboronexport (part of the Rostec State Corporation) launched the SPRUT-SDM1 light amphibious tank, built by the Tractor Plants Concern, on 16 August.
“This is a unique piece of armament [….] the SPRUT-SDM1 is the only light amphibious fighting vehicle in its class that possesses the firepower of the main battle tank. It is capable of disembarking from a ship and operating day or night in terrain impassable for other similar vehicles. Rosoboronexport expects increased attention to this vehicle from countries having difficult terrain, such as water obstacles, marshes and mountains. In particular, a number of South-East countries have already shown great interest in the SPRUT-SDM1,” commented Rosoboronexport’s Director General, Alexander Mikheev. “The SPRUT-SDM1 is designed to provide fire support to infantry, engage armoured targets, destroy enemy strong points and fortifications, and conduct battlefield reconnaissance and security. It is intended for equipping the Marine Corps and tank units of the ground forces.”
The SPRUT-SDM1 has a powerful armament suite that brings approximate parity with the main battle tank, including a 125mm main gun, a 7.62-mm remote-controlled machine gun, and a 7.62-mm coaxial machine gun. The vehicle is equipped with a guided missile weapon system designed to engage armoured targets, including those equipped with modern explosive reactive armour, at ranges up to five kilometres. Its highly automated digital fire control system enables target detection, recognition and engagement on the move and at the halt, in poor visibility conditions, day or night, using different types of gunner’s and commander’s sights.
The vehicle also offers a high level of protection for vehicles in its class. Its low weight and amphibious capability ensure a high level of tactical mobility. It is capable of fighting in the highlands and hot tropical climate, firing its gun while afloat.
“Rosoboronexport will provide full information on the combat capabilities and technical characteristics of the SPRUT-SDM1 at the upcoming Army 2018 International Military Technical Forum. In addition, we expect that at the forum our foreign guests will also show considerable interest in other products, being promoted by the company for the ground forces, in particular in the BT-3F amphibious armoured personnel carrier, yet another novelty,” added Mr Mikheev.
