An M2 Bradley, an American infantry fighting vehicle captured by Russian forces in Ukraine, was photographed with an unusual modification: its original 25mm Bushmaster cannon was replaced by a Russian 2A72 30mm model.
It is still unclear whether the alteration serves operational purposes, technical tests, or propaganda, but the image reinforces the Russian practice of repurposing captured Western equipment. The Bradley in question was in a depot alongside other armored vehicles seized from Ukrainian troops.
The new cannon, used on vehicles like the BTR-82 and Russian attack helicopters, offers a higher rate of fire (330 rounds per minute) and extended range compared to the Bushmaster. Experts suggest the swap might be a solution to the shortage of Western ammunition or an attempt to integrate the vehicle with Russian weapon systems.
Despite this, reports indicate Russian soldiers praise the armor and fire control system of the Bradley, even though they prefer the armament of their own armored vehicles.
Russia has previously displayed captured Bradleys as war trophies, but this is the first time one has appeared with significant modifications. The Kremlin has also used these vehicles for propaganda purposes, highlighting alleged failures in Western equipment. Sergey Chemezov, CEO of state-owned Rostec, criticized the mobility of the Bradley in difficult terrain and its lack of amphibious capability, contrasting it with Russian IFVs. However, combat records show many Bradleys survive multiple attacks, demonstrating their resilience.
Although Ukrainian losses of these vehicles are high (at least 177 destroyed or captured, according to the Oryx group), Russia appears interested in exploiting those still operational. The adaptation of a local cannon suggests captured armored vehicles may be repurposed, even if on a small scale.
While there is no evidence of a large-scale rearmament program, the modification underscores the hybrid equipment war amid the conflict.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @simpatico771 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed 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
— SIMPLICIUS Ѱ (@simpatico771) June 12, 2025
