Ukrainian forces have expressed high praise for the American-supplied M2A2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, which have become a significant asset in their defense against Russian forces.
Withstands Machinge Gun Fire
The Ukrainian military has received several hundred of these vehicles, and their performance on the battlefield has earned them a reputation as one of Russia's worst nightmares, according to WP.
Ukrainian crews have highlighted the Bradley's exceptional durability and protection, noting that it withstands machine gun fire and artillery shrapnel with ease, allowing soldiers to carry out daring raids on Russian positions.
During the early stages of the Zaporizhzhia counteroffensive, one Bradley crew initially mistook the sound of Russian fire for rain, a testament to the vehicle's resilience.
Drive out of Craters
The Bradleys have also impressed with their mobility, often exceeding the specifications provided by the manufacturer. One Ukrainian driver mentioned reaching speeds higher than the stated 60 km/h on roads and 50 km/h off-road, and praised the vehicle's intuitive controls, which can be mastered in just 15 minutes.
In one instance, a Bradley even managed to drive out of a crater caused by a 500-kilogram bomb.
The vehicle's armament, particularly the M242 Bushmaster 25mm automatic cannon, has been likened to a sniper rifle by Ukrainian soldiers. They report successfully targeting and hitting enemies up to three kilometers away, with the ballistic computer making precise adjustments automatically.
Despite its effectiveness, the only complaint from Ukrainian crews is the lack of air conditioning. The M2A2 Bradley has proven itself to be a formidable asset in Ukraine's defense, offering a balance of protection, firepower, and mobility that continues to challenge Russian forces on the battlefield.