A prototype unmanned armored car built on the BMP-3 platform was unveiled by the All-Russian Research Institute VNII Signal. The vehicle is controlled remotely via a tablet, providing full command capabilities from a distance.
The research team has spent more than a decade investigating this technology. A comprehensive program of diverse tests has been conducted, creating a robust knowledge base and practical experience that supports confidence in unmanned operation. As noted by Sergey Kurdubanov, chief designer at the institution, those involved in the project are comfortable with the process and outcomes, even when the vehicle is unmanned.
A dedicated system enables driving armored vehicles as if a driver is seated inside. This control framework is designed to be adaptable, capable of equipping a wide range of platforms, including infantry fighting vehicles, armored cars, and even tanks, with equal effectiveness.
The system is priced to be accessible, with the remote-control capability accounting for roughly ten percent of the vehicle’s overall cost in the case of the BMP-3. The engineers emphasize scalability and practical deployment, noting that it is feasible to convert various chassis into drone configurations. For example, transforming a standard car into a drone can take up to ten days, according to Kurdubanov in a discussion with Zvezda. The project highlights the potential to extend unmanned operation across different frame styles and mobility concepts, balancing performance with cost efficiency and deployment speed.