The Russian army recently demonstrated a promising new infantry fighting vehicle, the B-19, at recent joint exercises Zapad-2021
This prototype is built based on the BMP-3
The standard turret of the BMP-3 has been removed and replaced by the Epokha, an unmanned weapon station developed the Russian company KPB
The B-19 combat vehicle is equipped with an Epokha unmanned weapon station, which carries the 57mm automatic cannon and Kornet anti-tank guided missiles
Advanced version of Soviet-era BMP-3 fighting vehicle also equipped with the Bulat missile system
that designed for the elimination of emplacements and lightly armored vehicles
Epokha’s key feature is an automated search and recognition system that tracks enemy objects
and provides a firing solution for the simultaneous or consequential use of two-weapon channels
The vehicle offers a new firepower while maintaining mobility of the standard BMP-3 IFV
The use of a 57mm automatic cannon allows the BMP B-19 to be more efficient to destroy light armored vehicles
The Kornet-EM is an improved version of the standard Kornet anti-tank-guided missiles which has increased range, and an improved warhead
It has a maximum firing range of 10 km and be also used against aerial targets as helicopters
According to Russian military sources, the new BMP B-19 could enter into service with the Russian army in 2022
In the future, if positive results are obtained on tests
this may lead to the beginning of a massive modernization of available armored vehicles and the re-equipment of motorized rifle units
One of the main advantages of the B-19 is that there is no need to build the entire vehicle from scratch
Such an infantry fighting vehicle can be rebuilt from existing equipment as part of scheduled repair and modernization
At the same time, savings in production and operation are achieved, while the mobility characteristics remain the same