MOSCOW, March 22 (UPI) -- Russia may begin manufacturing updated BMD-4M airborne infantry fighting vehicles next year, a published report said.
The BMD-4M is the newest version of a military fighter vehicle that has para-dropping capabilities, intented to provide armed support to airborne soldiers, Novosti reported Friday.
The vehicle reportedly has an updated chassis, digital firing system and high-precision weapons, such as a 100-mm gun.
"Following the final test results a decision will be made when the production of the vehicle (BMD-4M) will begin," Concern Tractor Plants President Mikhail Bolotin said.
Bolotin said Russian Airborne Troops would be given hundreds of BMD-4Ms until 2015 as part of a state arms procurement plan.
"The capacity of our plants allows us to assemble up to 3,000 vehicles per year," Bolotin said.
