M2 / M3 Bradley

The M2 Bradley is an American infantry fighting vehicle developed by United Defense, now BAE Systems, to replace the M113 and counter the Soviet BMP series. Development began in 1963 to create a platform for troop transport and anti-armor operations. A primary design requirement was the ability to maintain formation with the M1 Abrams main battle tank. The vehicle entered service with the U.S. Army in 1981, following a development process that included live-fire testing to evaluate survivability against overmatch threats.

The vehicle utilizes a welded aluminum monocoque chassis with a torsion bar suspension. Primary firepower is provided by an M242 25mm chain gun featuring a dual-feed mechanism for armor-piercing and high-explosive rounds. For heavy armor engagements, the Bradley employs a TOW missile system, upgraded to fire TOW II missiles in later variants. Secondary armament consists of a coaxial 7.62mm M240C machine gun. The M3 Bradley variant is configured for reconnaissance, carrying more ammunition and omitting infantry firing ports. Protection is provided by spaced laminate armor and aluminum alloys. The M2A2 and subsequent models incorporated steel applique armor, Kevlar spall liners, and brackets for explosive reactive armor to defend against 30mm rounds and rocket-propelled grenades. Digital upgrades in the M2A3 variant introduced second-generation forward-looking infrared sensors and a Commander’s Independent Viewer, allowing the commander to scan for targets independently of the gunner. The M2A4 variant features drivetrain and suspension improvements to manage increased weight, including the integration of the Iron Fist active protection system. The Bradley chassis also serves as the basis for other systems, including the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System and the M6 Linebacker air defense vehicle.

The Bradley has been deployed in several conflicts, including the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and the Russo-Ukrainian War. During the Gulf War, the vehicle destroyed more Iraqi armored vehicles than the M1 Abrams, though some were lost to friendly fire, leading to the adoption of identification panels. In the Iraq War, it was used for urban operations and faced threats from improvised explosive devices. Since 2023, the vehicle has been operated by Ukraine in both offensive and defensive roles. Ukrainian combat reports indicate the vehicle's armor protected crews from hits that would be lethal in Soviet-designed carriers. Combat engagements include the disabling of T-90M tanks and the destruction of T-72 tanks. The Bradley is operated by several countries, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Croatia, and Ukraine.