Ukraine’s potential acquisition of AMPVs over M2 Bradleys emphasizes adaptable defense systems, offering logistical advantages, drone countermeasures, and expanded roles in modern warfare, boosting Kyiv’s resilience.
The United States Army’s M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle remains a controversial platform, so much so that it inspired a book and an HBO made-for-TV movie that highlighted its shortcomings.
Yet, the M2 Bradley also proved a highly capable war machine in the 1991 Gulf War, where it was credited with destroying more Iraqi tanks and other armored vehicles than the M1 Abrams main battle tank (MBT).
The Bradley has also been seen as a competent armored platform in the ongoing war in Ukraine. Part of that is because more than 300 IFVs have been supplied, far greater than the Abrams tanks, but as Harrison Kass wrote for The National Interest last November, “bolstered Ukraine’s defense… [while the Bradley] gained something of a legendary status among Ukrainian fighters.”
Kyiv could soon have the opportunity to further bolster its armored forces by acquiring additional Bradley variants. These wouldn’t be the M2 models or even the lesser-known M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV) version, but the turret-less Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) that the U.S. Army selected in 2014 to replace the aging M113 armored personnel carrier (APC).
The U.S. Army originally called for 3,000 AMPVs, which would be produced in five unique variations. Instead of serving in a more multirole capability like the M2, the AMPV was configured for more specialized roles, including troop transport, medical evacuation/medical treatment vehicle, mortar carrier, and mission command platform.
BAE Systems was awarded a full-rate production (FRP) contract for the AMPV in August 2023, and by the end of last year, around 300 had been delivered to the Army.
Ukraine May Receive the AMPV Instead of the M2 Bradley
The U.S. Army is now rethinking the AMPV, just as it officially canceled the M10 Booker “light tank” program, and announced it won’t purchase additional Stryker, MMWV, or JLTV armored vehicles.
However, according to a report from the Ukrainian-based Defense Express, Ukraine could sustain AMPV production “by ordering vehicles for its use.” Kyiv hasn’t publicly announced any such plans, so it could be that the AMPV production will continue to replace the 300+ M2 Bradleys that were sent to Ukraine.
The AMPV May Be Better for the Ukrainians than the M2 Bradley
The AMPV could be a capable platform if Kyiv can purchase it in significant quantities, especially as BAE Systems expands its capabilities.
Last year, the defense contractor unveiled the latest prototype variant of the AMPV, which was configured with a standard top plate, also known as the External Mission Equipment Package (ExMEP). It allows the platform to adapt to be fitted with more than thirty different turret systems and builds on the vehicle’s modularity.
The prototype featured Oshkosh Defense’s Medium Caliber Weapon System (MCWS), showcasing the vehicle’s ability to integrate capabilities and equipment packages internationally.
BAE Systems has further sought to expand the AMPV’s capabilities. One of them is the C-UAS, a drone-killer personnel carrier variant that could protect unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and an indirect fire support version model equipped with the Finnish-produced 120mm Patria NEMO mortar turret with an autoloader that can fire ten rounds per minute.
It isn’t a question of whether Kyiv could use some extra armored vehicles like the AMPV, but how soon the platforms could arrive.
About the Author: Peter Suciu
Peter Suciu has contributed over 3,200 published pieces to more than four dozen magazines and websites over a thirty-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. He is based in Michigan. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: [email protected].
Image Credit: Shutterstock/ Karasev Viktor.
