A M2 Bradley, an American infantry combat vehicle captured by the Russian forces in Ukraine, was photographed with an unusual modification: its 25mm original cannon was replaced by a 30mm 2a72 Russian model.
It is still unclear whether the change has operational purposes, technical tests or advertising, but the image reinforces the Russian practice of reusing western equipment captured. The Bradley in question was in a warehouse next to other armored armor on the Ukrainian troops.
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The new cannon, used in vehicles such as BTR-82 and Russian attack helicopters, offers higher fire cadence (330 shots per minute) and extended range compared to Bushmaster. Experts suggest that exchange may be a solution to western ammunition scarcity or an attempt to integrate the vehicle into Russian weaponry systems.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that Russian soldiers praise the armor and the fire control system of the Bradleyeven though you prefer the weapons of your own armor.
Russia has already exhibited Bradleys Captured as war trophies, but this is the first time one appears with significant modifications. Kremlin has also used these vehicles for advertising purposes, highlighting alleged faults on western equipment. Sergey Chemezov, CEO of the state -owned company Rosteccriticized Bradley’s mobility on difficult land and the lack of amphibious capacity, contrasting it with the IFVs Russians. However, combat records show that many Bradleys survive multiple attacks, highlighting their resistance.
Although the Ukrainian losses of these vehicles are high (at least 177 destroyed or captured, according to the Oryx group), Russia seems to be interested in exploring those still operational. Adapting a local cannon suggests that the captured armored shields may be reused, even on a small scale.
While there is no evidence of a broad program of rearmament, the modification reinforces the hybrid war equipment in the midst of the conflict.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: x @sympathic771 | This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team
🇷🇺Some wondered how can Russians use the Bradley if they don’t have ammo for it. Well, that’s how:
“Russian repairmen installed a domestic 30mm 2A72 cannon on a captured Bradley instead of the chain-driven Bushmaster.” pic.twitter.com/m4SZhfVKQe
– Simple ѱ (@ Simpatico771) June 12, 2025
