ukroboronprom.com.ua
The BTR-70D (GM) is equipped with new engines from U.S.-based General Motors.
Ukrainian state-run Zhytomyr Armored Plant, part of state-run Ukroboronprom Concern, has showcased a modernized armored personnel carrier, BTR-70D (GM), at the 15th International Specialized Exhibition 'Arms and Security 2018,' hosted by Kyiv on October 9-12.
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"The retrofitted BTR-70D (GM) armored vehicle is equipped with new engines from U.S.-based General Motors, as well as with the Delta combat module, which features a 23mm automatic gun and a digital fire control system. When modernizing the vehicle, Zhytomyr Armored Plant engineers focused on replacing outdated Soviet engines with newer, more powerful and economical ones," the Ukroboronprom's press service said in a statement on October 9.
As reported, thanks to the new GM-6.2 engines, the overall power of the BTR-70D increased to 290 hp, which is 50 hp more than that of the BTR-70. The top speed of the modernized BTR rose by 20 km/h to 100 km/h.
"The 11.6-tonne BTR-70D (GM) is equipped with the new Delta combat module featuring a 23mm automatic gun and a 7.62mm machine gun. The armament of the new module outperforms that of the BTR-70, which has 14.5mm and 7.62mm machine guns. In addition, the Delta module has a modern digital multi-function fire control system with a thermal imaging camera, a laser rangefinder, a weapon stabilizer, and a target acquisition and tracking system," the report said.
"In total, the BTR-70D (GM) – compared with the BTR-70 basic model, which is in service with Ukraine's Armed Forces – has more powerful weapons and engines, as well as greater speed and better maneuverability on the battlefield. The use of modern combat modules can significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of firing under any weather conditions and during any period of the day," the press service added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraine's major manufacturer of armored vehicles, Kharkiv-based Malyshev Plant, in August started assembling the first experimental BTR-4 hull.