Russia integrates captured M2A2 Bradley into its arsenal
As reported by Forbes, among others, one of the M2A2 Bradley fighting vehicles captured by the Russians has been incorporated into their army. This is the first such occurrence since the beginning of the war. The M2A2 Bradley is recognized as one of the best NATO vehicles supplied by allies to Ukraine.
The United States has already delivered over 300 M2A2 Bradley units to Ukraine, which have been used by the defending army even on the toughest sections of the front. Valued for their high durability and significant offensive capabilities, they allow effective competition, even with tanks. These vehicles have contributed to many Ukrainian victories; however, there have been losses. The Russians have destroyed several dozen M2A2 Bradleys. Nonetheless, they have managed to capture a few of these vehicles.
M2A2 Bradley in Russian service
According to Forbes, since the beginning of the war, the Russians have captured at least five M2A2 Bradleys. These were treated similarly to other captured NATO equipment—they ended up in Russia as war trophies and were analyzed by local experts or displayed in propaganda military parades.
However, a video has now surfaced online showing the Russians using one of the five captured Bradleys. A slightly modified M2A2 Bradley (with elements meant to increase protection against drones) is reported to be in service with the 30th Motorized Rifle Brigade of the Russian army.
It is unclear how the Russians intend to use this trophy. Ukrainian soldiers underwent specialized training in NATO countries, which allows them to fully utilize the capabilities of the M2A2 Bradley. There may also be concerns about the technical condition of the captured vehicle (it is possible it has minor damage that may only become apparent in potential combat) and how the Russians plan to arm it.
Tank killer from the USA
Forbes suggests that ultimately, the M2A2 Bradley might be used by them as an evacuation vehicle, in which, due to its armour, it would perform significantly better than the old Soviet-era BMPs. The M2A2 Bradley is considered one of the most durable infantry fighting vehicles in the world. It has armour made of steel, aluminium, and composite materials, as well as a spall liner and an efficient fire extinguishing system. There have been reports confirming that the M2A2 Bradley survived, among other things, a clash with a Russian T-72 tank.
Regarding armament, this American-made vehicle offers a 25 mm M242 Bushmaster cannon, a 7.62 mm machine gun, and an anti-tank guided missile launcher. It also has a smoke grenade launcher. It is powered by an engine with 500 hp or 600 hp (depending on the production year), allowing it to reach speeds over 65 km/h.
"The Bradley is not a tank, but it can be a tank killer," once wrote retired U.S. Army General Mark Hertling on the X platform, who commanded this type of vehicle during Operation Desert Storm.
