M2A2 Bradleys prove life-saving in Ukrainian minefields
The Western infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) delivered to Ukraine are highly valuable because, unlike the Soviet-era ones, they provide protection against mines. One of the more numerous and highly praised designs of this type in Ukraine is the American M2A2 Bradley.
A Ukrainian crew from an M2A2 Bradley IFV belonging to the 100th Mechanized Brigade gave an interview to Army TV, discussing, among other topics, counter-mine defence. The commander mentioned that, at one point, they struck an anti-tank TM-62 mine, yet no one was injured. Everyone was able to exit the vehicle; the track rollers were blown off, but everyone survived without even a concussion."
This is one of many accounts from Ukrainian soldiers for whom the M2A2 Bradley, made renowned by the 47th Mechanized Brigade, has saved lives from mines, drones, anti-tank guided missiles, and automatic gunfire from Russian vehicles.
M2A2 Bradley — old yet very threatening to Russians, a gift from the USA
Ukraine received M2A2 Bradley ODS IFVs from the USA, which are veterans of the Gulf War. This variant is significantly enhanced compared to the version that debuted in the 1970s.
Modifications resulted in the A2 version losing its amphibious capability due to its 27-tonne weight. Modifications from the 1990s included the installation of improved optronic systems with higher-resolution thermal sights and a laser rangefinder.
Even though the Bradley's weight differs from heavier IFVs, such as the CV90 or Puma, which weigh almost 40 tonnes, it still provides excellent protection for the crew of three and a squad of seven soldiers.
The basic armour offers protection against fire from large-calibre machine guns like the KPW calibre 14.5×114 mm, and the front armour can withstand 30 mm rounds fired from 2A42 automatic guns. Additionally, the Bradley can be equipped with BRAT reactive armour, significantly increasing its resistance to fire from handheld anti-tank weapons and FPV drones.
Armament of the M2A2 Bradley — an effective tandem for most targets
The main armament is the M242 Bushmaster automatic cannon, calibre 25 mm, capable of firing armour-piercing and high-explosive incendiary M792 HEI-T ammunition at a rate of 200 rounds per minute, hitting targets at a distance of up to 3 kilometres. Additionally, there is a dual launcher for BGM-71F (TOW 2B) anti-tank guided missiles. These missiles can destroy tanks at a distance of up to 3.7 kilometres by attacking the weakest, upper armour.
However, it is an older system requiring missile guidance until impact and can only be fired while stationary. Furthermore, new Russian active defence systems like Arena-M, which have started to appear on the front, may counter these missiles. Nevertheless, the old but still threatening M2A2 Bradley is the most numerous type of Western IFV that has arrived in Ukraine.
