Ukrainian military forces have released images of a destroyed Russian BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle equipped with 4S24 explosive reactive armor (ERA) modules, also known as “Kaktus.”
Earlier this year, the first BMP-3 outfitted with ERA was observed on the frontlines, suggesting an effort to enhance the vehicle’s survivability against threats such as FPV drones, RPGs, and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).
The latest images, which show at least the second BMP-3 with this protective upgrade to be lost in combat, indicate that these ERA kits are being deployed, though not yet on a widespread basis.
The 4S24 ERA kits were developed as part of the “Karkas-2” program to address the vulnerabilities of light vehicles. They offer anti-cumulative protection similar to the 4S20 Kontakt ERA, but with half the explosive material.
To mitigate damage to the vehicle’s light armor, the protection elements are encased in a container with layers of foam polymer material. This design ensures controlled deceleration of detonated metal plates, disrupting the cumulative jet while reducing penetration.
Russian sources claim the Karkas-2 system successfully prevents detonation transfer between protection elements, providing essential defense against cumulative jets. The BMP-3s have been outfitted with 4S24 blocks along their sides and frontal projection, aiming to enhance their durability in combat scenarios.
However, despite these protective measures, the BMP-3 remains vulnerable to threats posed by Ukrainian suicide drones.