"Chimera" to replace the Soviet "Bardak": characteristics of the new armored vehicle for radiation and chemical reconnaissance named

Special equipment on the "Caiman" chassis moves at speeds up to 100 km/h

The newest armored vehicle for radiation, chemical and biological reconnaissance (RCB) «Chimera» will replace the Soviet armored reconnaissance and patrol vehicles (BRDM) in the Armed Forces of Belarus. This was reported by the press service of the State Military-Industrial Committee of Belarus.

The vehicle was developed by the Belarusian company «Agat – electromechanical plant». The equipment of the «Chimera» allows detecting radiation, toxic substances, biological agents (viruses, bacteria and toxins).

To make a decision on conducting hostilities, the commander needs to assess the situation, including determining the presence of radiation, chemical and (or) biological hazards. The developed sample allows this to be done.
Press service of the State Military-Industrial Committee of Belarus

Characteristics of «Chimera»:

  • Chassis «Caiman» 60.42 (4×4)
  • Speed — up to 100 km/h
  • Range — 1000 km
  • Overcoming water obstacles at a speed of at least 6 km/h
  • Automatic sampling of soil and water
  • Designation of contamination zones
  • Satellite navigation (GLONASS/GPS)
  • Own weather station
  • Crew — 3 people
  • Operation at temperatures from –30 to +40 °С

The radiation reconnaissance vehicle reliably protects the crew in contaminated conditions.

The Armed Forces of Belarus use modernized Soviet BRDM-2 («Bardak»). Armored vehicles were produced at the Gorky Automobile Plant from 1963 to 1982. They were equipped with a GAZ-41 engine. BRDM-2 are armed with KPVT and PKT machine guns.

Read more materials on the topic: