Marder 1A3 tracked armored IFVs donated by Germany enter into service with Ukrainian army


According to a video published on Social Network on March 29, 2023, the first Marder tracked armored IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicles) donated by Germany have now entered into service with the Ukrainian army. With the Marder 1A3 tracked IFV the Ukrainian armed forces will have a modern combat vehicle offering several advantages when compared to the Soviet-made BMP-1 and BMP-2 IFVs currently used by the Ukrainian army to fight Russian troops.
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The Marder 1A3 tracked armored Infantry Fighting Vehicles donated by Germany are now in service with the Ukrainian army. (Picture source Screen shot video footage Social Network)


On January 13, 2023, the German Ministry of Defense's website published a list confirming Germany's intention to provide military assistance to Ukraine, including the delivery of 40 Marder tracked armored Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) and one Patriot air defense missile system.

On March 5, 2023, German company Rheinmetall disclosed that over 40 Marder tracked armored Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) have already been refurbished for Ukraine. By the end of the year, approximately 100 Marder IFVs are expected to be fully operational.

The Marder 1A3 features improved armor protection compared to BMP-1 and BMP-2. Its armor consists of spaced steel plates that provide better resistance to shaped charge warheads and small arms fire. The Marder 1A3 also has spall liners that further enhance the vehicle's protection against fragmentation.

While the BMP-1 and BMP-2 are equipped with a 73mm smoothbore gun and a 30mm autocannon, respectively, the Marder 1A3 is armed with a 20mm RH-202 autocannon. The Marder's autocannon has a higher rate of fire and better accuracy than the BMP-1's gun, and although its caliber is smaller than the BMP-2's autocannon, the Marder 1A3 can still effectively engage a wide range of targets, including lightly armored vehicles, infantry, and low-flying aircraft.

The Marder 1A3 has a higher power-to-weight ratio than the BMP-1 and BMP-2, providing it with better acceleration and overall mobility. The Marder's suspension system also offers improved off-road capabilities, allowing it to traverse rough terrain more effectively.

The Marder 1A3 is designed with better ergonomics and crew comfort in mind. It has a more spacious troop compartment and improved seating arrangements for the soldiers compared to the BMP-1 and BMP-2.


Marder 1A3 tracked armored IFVs donated by Germany enter into service with Ukrainian army 925 002
German army Marder 1A3 tracked armored Infantry IFV Fighting Vehicle. (Picture source Army Recognition)