Image source: topwar.ru
The PLA ground forces are divided into "weight categories", each of which has its own main combat vehicle. In light brigades, these are Dongfeng Mengshi armored vehicles (an analog of a Humvee or Tiger); in heavy ones, the ZBD–04A infantry fighting vehicle (similar to the BMP-3, but with local specifics), operating together with Type 99A tanks; in medium ones– the ZBL-08 8x8 floating infantry fighting vehicle.
The ZBL-08 (and the vehicles based on it) is the most massive modern armored vehicle of the PLA: in total, more than 6 thousand units of all modifications were produced. Taking into account the combat experience of the Russian Armed Forces, the Chinese command is developing a set of protective grilles for this infantry fighting vehicle, which will at least to some extent protect the vehicle from drones.
Parts of the relevant patent were posted online. According to the publication, this is a modular system consisting of shields installed around the tower and on the sides of the hull and covering about 80% of the surface of the machine. The grilles protect the most vulnerable areas, such as the wheels, the troop compartment and the cockpit. All elements are attached to the existing bolted connections of the hull and tower, which eliminates the need for drilling and welding.
Image source: topwar.ru
The side grids are hinged (hinged). This facilitates installation, storage, and transportation. In front of the front of the tower, a free space is left, necessary for the operation of the gun.
The currently available solutions cover the ZBL-08 by about 40%, leaving, in particular, the wheels open, when they are damaged, the machine actually loses its functionality. Therefore, work in this direction continues, which is confirmed by the published patent.
It is noteworthy that in such a "body kit" the ZBL-08 is likely to lose its seaworthiness. The nets create a lot of resistance in the water; even if the car stays afloat, it will move at an extremely low speed. The accumulation of nets on the tower and bow shifts the center of gravity upward, which makes the floating car extremely unstable – it can turn over from a small wave.
Apparently, this is another signal of the decline of the concept of a universal floating infantry fighting vehicle. The PLA seeks to preserve the theoretical buoyancy of the ZBL-08 by equipping it with quick-release anti-drone arrays and overhead modular armor, which can be dismantled in a short time and send infantry fighting vehicles to cross water barriers. But it is obvious that the Chinese are preparing for combat in the area of active use of UAVs, where buoyancy is an unacceptable luxury.
