2S25 Sprut-SD

The 2S25 Sprut-SD is a self-propelled tank destroyer or light tank, built on the BMD-3 chassis. Designed for use by the Russia VDV airborne forces it is light and highly mobile.

Development
The 125 mm 2S25 self-propelled anti-tank gun was developed by the Volgograd Tractor Plant Joint Stock Company to meet the requirements of the Russian Air Assault Divisions. According to the manufacturer, the 2S25 can also be employed as a light amphibious tank by rapid deployment forces, airborne, marine and special purpose units. In mid-2001, it was stated that the Volgograd Tractor Plant had been working on the 2S25 for about seven years. It was also stated that the 2S25, which is also referred to as the SPRUT-SD, could operate in the water and still be able to fire its 125 mm gun while afloat. It can also operate in altitudes of up to 3,000 m. The Volgograd Tractor Plant designed and manufactured the BMD-1, BMD-2, BMD-3 and latest BMD-4 airborne combat vehicles that are used by the Russian Air Assault Divisions. Recent information has indicated that production of the BMD-4 airborne combat vehicle has been transferred to the Kurgan Machine Construction Plant where production of the BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicle and its variants is currently undertaken for the home and export markets. As far as it is known, production of the 2S25 self-propelled anti-tank gun is still being carried out at the Volgograd Tractor plant.

The 2S25 is designed to be parachuted with the crew inside, allowing nearly immediate combat readiness upon landing. Each crewmember has their own day/night sight and the engine provides some 500HP. Republic of Korea and Indian military have expressed interest in acquiring the Sprut "Octopus" 2S25.

Protection
The hull and turret of the 2S25 self-propelled anti-tank gun is of all-welded aluminum armour without a composite skin. The vehicle is constructed with the crew compartment at the front, turret and fighting compartment in the center and power pack at the rear. Through the frontal arc of 40° left and right the armour provides protection against attack from 23 mm weapons at 500 m and through the remainder of the vehicle against attack from 7.62 mm firearms.