The SE “Mykolayiv Armoured Plant”, part of UkrOboronProm, has developed an upgrade package for the BRDM-2 amphibious armoured patrol vehicle, which was originally manufactured at the Gorkovsky Avtomobilny Zavod (GAZ) in Nizhny Novgorod.
The upgraded BRDM-2 is designated the BRDM-NIK by SE “Mykolayiv Armoured Plant”, and the enhancements are focused on improving the armor protection of the crew. It differs from the previous versions mostly in a modified configuration of the vehicle’s hull, which makes it possible to install additional types of protection. The BRDM-NIK received the enhanced protection of the frontal zone.
According to UkrOboronProm, the BRDM-NIK has a curb weight of 8,200 kg. The vehicle is powered by an FPT IVECO Tector (Euro-3) diesel engine with a power output of 150hp providing a maximum speed of 100 km/h and a cruising range of 1,100km.
The vehicle is fitted with the “Falkonet” combat module fitted with a 14,5mm KPVT machine-gun (500 rounds) and one 7,62mm PKT (2000 rounds). In addition, BRDM-NIK is equipped with new digital radios that provide reliable and secure communication.
