| Vehicle Name | M2A3 Bradley |
| Type / Role | Infantry Fighting Vehicle |
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| In Service | Yes |
| Year Introduced | 2000s upgrade |
| Unit Cost | Approx USD 3 million |
| Crew | 3 plus 6 dismounts |
| Length (Gun Forward) | 6.55 m |
| Width | 3.6 m |
| Height | 2.98 m |
| Weight | 33 tons |
| Ground Clearance | 0.4 m |
| Chassis Material | Aluminum |
| Engine Type | Diesel |
| Engine Power | 600 hp |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 18 hp per ton |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Maximum Speed (Road) | 66 kmh |
| Maximum Speed (Off-Road) | 40 kmh |
| Operational Range | 400 km |
| Suspension Type | Torsion bar |
| Main Gun | 25 mm M242 chain gun |
| Ammunition Capacity | 900 rounds (mixed types) |
| Secondary Armament | 7.62 mm MG, TOW launcher |
| Gun Elevation/Depression | plus 60 deg to minus 10 deg |
| Fire Control System | Digital |
| Stabilization | Two axis |
| Rate of Fire | 200 rounds per minute (select) |
| Armor Type | Aluminum plus ERA option |
| Reactive Armor | Optional modules |
| Active Protection System (APS) | Optional kits |
| NBC Protection | Yes |
| Smoke Grenade Launchers | Yes |
| Fire Suppression System | Automatic |
| Mine Protection | Reinforced floor |
| Maximum Gradient | 60 percent |
| Side Slope | 40 percent |
| Trench Crossing | 2.3 m |
| Vertical Obstacle | 0.9 m |
| Fording Depth | 1 m |
| Turning Radius | Pivot turn capable |
| Amphibious Capability | With preparation kits |
| Fire Control Computer | Digital |
| Thermal Imaging | Yes |
| Night Vision | IR and NVG |
| Laser Rangefinder | Yes |
| Ballistic Computer | Yes |
| Communication System | Secure radio |
| Battlefield Management System | Available on upgrades |
| Service Branch | U S Army |
| Primary Operator | USA and partners |
| Combat Experience | Iraq |
| Upgrade Packages | A2 to A3 |
| Export Status | Limited |
| Production Status | Active for upgrades |
The M2A3 Bradley is a key armored vehicle in U S Army mechanized units. It was built to move infantry through tough terrain, protect them from fire, and engage enemy forces with accurate weapons. Developed by BAE Systems in the United States, the M2A3 is an improved version of the earlier Bradley line, now fitted with modern sensors, digital fire control, and stronger armor.
The M2A3 variant keeps the same core mission as its predecessors, but adds better protection and better awareness tools. It uses a 25 mm Bushmaster chain gun, a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun, and a twin launcher for TOW anti tank missiles. This gives the vehicle a strong punch against infantry, light vehicles, and armored threats.
Powered by a 600 horsepower diesel engine, the Bradley moves well on and off the road. Its aluminum armor, paired with optional explosive reactive armor, shields the crew from small arms, artillery fragments, and shaped charges. The vehicle also carries modern thermal sights, independent commander viewers, and secure radios that help crews spot and hit threats faster.
The M2A3 serves in U S Army armored brigades and has seen extensive use in Iraq and other combat zones. It carries a three person crew plus six dismount soldiers. Its upgraded digital backbone allows for faster target sharing and closer cooperation with tanks, drones, and artillery.
The Bradley line is set to remain in service for years while the Army develops its next generation replacement. Until that platform arrives, the M2A3 continues to be a proven and dependable combat vehicle.
The M2A3 Bradley cost varies with configuration, armor kits, sensors, and support packages. U S Army contract estimates place the unit price in the multi million dollar range depending on upgrade level and accessories.
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