Rosoboronexport Launches Unique ‘Boomerang’ Combat Vehicle

Rosoboronexport today announced its all-new Bumerang 8x8 amphibious combat vehicle platform developed and manufactured by Russia’s Military Industrial Company (VPK).

“ The uniqueness of the platform lies in the opportunity to build the widest range of vehicles on its base with various weapons and equipment. African, Middle East, Southeast Asian and CIS countries have already shown interest in Boomerang. We estimate exports of this platform in the foreseeable future at about $1 billion,” said Alexander Mikheev, Director General of Rosoboronexport.

In developing the vehicle, a new layout scheme was adopted: the driving compartment is located at the front left, with the engine compartment at the front right, the fighting compartment in the middle, and the troop compartment at the rear of the vehicle. The Boomerang can accommodate up to 11 troops. The troops enter and leave the vehicle via roof hatches and rear door or ramp.

Weapon stations mounted on the platform  can be a 30 mm automatic cannon and a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, a 30 mm automatic grenade launcher, two launchers with two ATGMs on each, as well as a 12.7 mm Kord machine gun (APC version).

To control weapons and conduct aimed fire, a modern digital fire control system includes a two-plane weapon stabilizer, a multi-channel electro-optical sighting system with a built-in laser rangefinder, and automated gunner’s and commander’s workstations  with a multi-function display and an integrated ballistic computer.

High mobility and a smooth ride of the vehicle are achieved through the use of eight-wheel-drive, independent suspension and a fuel-efficient 750 hp diesel engine. The vehicle can easily negotiate various obstacles, attain a speed of over 100 km/h on the highway and has a cruising range of at least 800 km.

Its amphibious properties make it possible to negotiate water obstacles even in Sea State 3. Moreover, it develops a speed of at least 10 km/h on water, having endurance on water of up to 12 hours.

A smoke-screen laying system, armor and a special shape of the hull provide protection of personnel against the effects of small arms, mine-explosive devices and shell splinters.

In case of damage, the armored vehicle is able to leave the battlefield with its two wheels completely torn off or continue moving with its tires punctured by bullets.

The vehicle’s survival on the battlefield is enhanced by disruptive camouflage painting, an aerosol or smoke screen system, fire protection systems, and an NBC protection system. In addition, the vehicle can be equipped with jammers protecting the crew from radio-controlled improvised explosive devices (IEDs).