Solutions from Ukraine: Ukrainian engineers modernize American M113 armored personnel carriers

Ukrainian engineers have made significant upgrades to the American M113 armored personnel carriers received through international military assistance. These enhancements have improved the vehicles' efficiency and increased safety for the crew.

This was reported by the Ministry of Defense, according to Rubryka.

What is the solution?

According to the Ministry of Defense, the key upgrade was the installation of the remotely controlled module "Tavria 14.5/7.62," developed by Ukrainian specialists.

How does it work?

The Tavria module is equipped with two machine guns—a 14.5 mm and a 7.62 mm—which significantly enhance the firepower of the armored personnel carrier.

A key advantage of the Tavria module is its ability to remotely control fire. Machine gunners can now operate without leaving the vehicle, using a monitor to observe the battlefield. This innovation greatly reduces risks for the crew, as previously gunners had to fire from an exposed position on the vehicle's armor.

"Now, thanks to the new module, consisting of 14.5 and 7.62 mm machine guns, the machine gunner can fire from inside the armored vehicle, observing the battlefield through a monitor," explained Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Dmytro Klimenkov.

Before modernization, the M113s were equipped with 12.7 mm machine guns, which did not allow for firing from a protected position. The new combat module fundamentally changes the way this equipment is used in combat.

The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has encouraged domestic manufacturers and developers of military equipment to actively participate in the modernization process.

Recently, the Armed Forces of Ukraine showcased the firing process of the self-propelled anti-tank complex "Sturm-S," which is based on the MT-LB platform. This anti-tank guided missile system (ATGM) has been modernized in Ukraine.

Additionally, Ukraine and the United States have collaborated to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities by upgrading the "Buk" system to work with American missiles.

Ukraine has also received a technical data package from the United States to begin local production of certain "FrankenSAM" projects. These involve modernizing and adapting Soviet-era anti-aircraft missile systems to be compatible with Western missiles.

Moreover, the United States has agreed to sell Ukraine equipment worth up to $138 million to support the operation and modernization of its HAWK air defense systems. These systems are designed to defend against drone and cruise missile attacks from the Russian Federation.