Russia Ready To Deploy Sprut-SDM1 Amphibious Tanks In The Baltic Sea

JAKARTA - Russian military authorities are preparing to test the second armament package for the Sprut-SDM1 light amphibious tank which is being developed for the Air Force.

In a press statement on Friday, July 16, the press office of the state technology company Rostec said the trials of this armored vehicle were planned to be carried out in the Black Sea.

"In the second phase of trials, the combat vehicle will demonstrate the operation of the 2S25 125mm self-propelled anti-tank gun and its efficiency in calm sea conditions and in rough seas up to three points," the press office said in a statement, citing TASS.

During the first stage of trials in the Black Sea, the Sprut-SDM1 tank demonstrated high navigational and carry-on capabilities by large amphibious assault ships. As revealed by the Rostec press office, the combat vehicle climate tests will continue this fall.

This included testing the efficiency of this tank in operating in cold weather conditions, having previously proven operational efficiency in the high temperatures of summer.

"The state trial cycle is expected to be completed by early 2022. Following their results, the design documentation on the light amphibious tank will be assigned the designation O1, which will allow to launch serial production of this combat vehicle. The Spurt-SDM1 will be recommended for acceptance into Army service Russia," the Rostec press office said.

The Sprut-SDM1 amphibious tank developed by the High Precision Weapons Company at Rostec features a 2A75 125mm gun and is similar to the T-90MS main battle tank based on its firepower.

"Sprout is being developed primarily for the Russian Air Force, but I am sure it will arouse the interest of foreign customers. First of all, we are preparing for the Indian, Asian and Middle Eastern markets," the press office quoted Rostec's Director of Industry for Armaments, Ammunition and Clusters as saying. Special Chemistry Bekkhan Ozdoyev.

As a combat vehicle, this tank has the ability to launch a variety of munitions. Starting from bullets capable of penetrating armor, sub-caliber, high-explosive fragmentation projectiles and also air-blast ammunition that can attack targets at a distance of up to 5 km.

While citing the site roe.ru, the SPRUT-SDM1 tank has a powerful weapon system, a modern automatic fire control system, advanced armor protection, a strong engine and transmission, and an efficient chassis. SPRUT-SDM1 is intended for fire support of units fighting against heavily armored materials, destruction of enemy forts and fortifications, battle reconnaissance and combat security.

The 2A75 125mm cannon can fire guided missiles, APFSDS, HEAT and HEF projectiles. For smaller targets there is a Remote Controlled Weapon Station with a 7.62mm machine gun and a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. The tank is also equipped with all the necessities to successfully complete the task in any climate and terrain. Interestingly, the SPRUT-SDM1 Light amphibious tank can be used efficiently by the Marines and the Army. With a crew of three, this 450 horsepower engine has a cruising range of up to 500 kilometers, a maximum speed of up to 70 kilometers per hour on land and 10 kilometers per hour at sea, with a buoyancy of up to seven hours.