In 2021, state tests of the airmobile floating tank "Sprut-SDM1", intended for the Airborne Troops of Russia, will continue.
It has already been tested in the Black Sea, where the machine showed readiness to perform combat missions in subtropical conditions at an air temperature of plus 40 degrees. And also-to overcome water obstacles with sea waves up to three points. "Octopus-SDM1" can also conduct afloat shooting and go out of the water on an unprepared shore. This machine is transported by ships and planes. It can be dropped into the desired area by landing and parachuting.
Now experienced technicians are waiting for new exams. In particular, testing for efficiency at low temperatures.
"State tests of the latest airmobile anti-tank gun "Sprut-SDM1" according to the plan should be completed by the end of 2022. In 2023, the car should be put into service, at the same time its serial deliveries to the Airborne Forces will begin, " RIA Novosti reports, citing a source at the headquarters of the Airborne Troops.
According to experts, due to a powerful gun capable of using guided missiles, as well as a new weapons control system and the presence of an automatic target tracking machine, the firepower of the Octopus-SDM1 with an artillery and missile system of 125 mm caliber is comparable to the main battle tanks.
Recall that in the world today there are a number of floating combat vehicles. In several countries, floating tanks PT-76 of Soviet design are in service. The Russian army has floating infantry and amphibious combat vehicles, as well as floating armored personnel carriers. However, all this equipment is equipped with light weapons.
The airmobile floating tank "Sprut-SDM1" was created on the basis of the airborne self-propelled anti-tank gun "Sprut-SD. Both vehicles have a 125-millimeter cannon capable of firing the same ammunition as Russia's main battle tanks, including missiles. Stabilized in two planes, this gun actually equates the "Octopus" in firepower with the T-80 and T-90. And in terms of mobility on land and water, the new tank is not inferior to the BMD-4M.
Yuri Gavrilov
