Indonesia Took Delivery Of Russian Infantry Fighting Vehicles

The Indonesian Ministry of Defense took delivery of Rosoboronexport-built 37 BMP-3F vehicles, and will join 17 in-service models, according to RIA Novosti.

The first batch of Russian infantry fighting vehicles was given to Jakarta as part of a billion-dollar loan to Indonesia by the Russian state, signed September 6, 2007, during a visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Indonesian capital. The infantry fighting vehicles ordered by Indonesia arrived at its main naval base in the Javanese city of Surabaya in November 2010.

A new contract to buy 37 more Russian BMP-3 vehicles, worth $114 million, was signed in early May 2013.

After delivery of this second batch of vehicles to Indonesia, Russia hopes to sign a contract with the country for the delivery of additional, larger orders. Creating a regional center in Indonesia to service the Russian armored personnel carriers was also discussed.

In the meantime, the BMP-3F training center, which opened in June 2013 in Russia, has already accepted troops from Indonesia. The contract with the Indonesian government includes the training of mechanics, weapons specialists, and electricians.

The floating BMP-3F, also known the “naval option”, is designed for marine units, as well as border and coastal defense troops, that would use the vehicle for fighting in the coastal zone, on the coast, and in amphibious assaults. Its arsenal has a unique set of weapons, including a 100-mm gun, 30 mm gun, guided missiles, and a machine gun. The combat vehicle has a three-person crew and can transport seven people.

The vehicle’s design allows it to act like a boat in waves at least three points at a speed of ten kilometers per hour for seven hours while firing in waves of up to two points. It can begin driving again in waves of less than three points, climbing out of the water onto land on its own.

In addition, the BMP-3F can tow supplies for use in a sea raid.