Image source: topwar.ru
The M113 APC began to enter the army in 1960. 65 years have passed, but many of the 80,000 vehicles of this type produced so far are still in service. The M113 is already an old machine, but it is very combat-ready due to its simple and unpretentious design. Moreover, it is one of the most versatile products, as it has been used to produce many modifications for a variety of purposes.
Therefore, upgrading the M113 is a practical solution for dozens of operators who continue to use this model and is also cheaper than buying new, more advanced, but also much more expensive armored vehicles. Currently, the M113 is used in two wars in the Ukrainian and Israeli armies, where it is considered a very useful machine.
Image Source: topwar.ru
This week, the Israeli company Rafael published a video demonstrating the project of turning the M113 into a powerful combat unit, noting:
The video suggests replacing the engine, as the power units of most of the M113 are already outdated. A more powerful installation will allow additional armor to be placed on the sides, front, rear ramp and bottom of the vehicle, which will provide better protection against small arms, RPGs, ATGM and mines. However, it should be noted that the shape of the M113 body is very limited in countering these threats.
Image source: topwar.ru
An interesting point was the reconstruction of the troop compartment: the old benches on the sides of the car were replaced with ergonomic individual seats. However, this reduced the capacity of the troop compartment from 11 to 6-8 soldiers, not counting the crew.
Another option offered by Rafael is the installation of a Samson 30 Mk II RWS turret equipped with a 30 mm cannon, 2 Spike ATGM launchers and 8 smoke grenade launchers. This modification allows you to turn the M113 into an infantry fighting vehicle and is suitable for countries that do not want to spend money on new equipment. A kind of BMP version "for the poor".
Image source: topwar.ru
Another version is equipped with a remote-controlled Samson Mini RWS turret with a 30 mm cannon and 2 Spike missile launchers. But the question is how much all these improvements will cost and whether it would be more appropriate to purchase new equipment with a design better suited to protect against modern threats.
