<Kanwa News June 20, 2003> A source from the Chinese military industry confirms that China is designing 2G IFV with the upgraded version BMP3 turret technologies. The progress of the project has been slow, as there are still disputes and disagreement within the Chinese army concerning the future direction of 2G IFV. Besides, the 2G IFV upgraded from BMP3 technology is extremely expensive and therefore cannot be deployed in the army in large scale. The source claims China has conducted tests on two upgraded models of 2G IFV. The latest version adopts the upgraded version BMP3 turret. Currently, a prototype vehicle is undergoing a series of tests. Meanwhile, China is considering the production of wheeled combat armor car on the basis of BMP3 fire control system.

The chassis of 2G IFV is designed by China, and the reliability of the chassis is still one of the major problems. As a result, the source adds, the testing will at least last for a whole year. The source points out that China is expected to develop its own 125mm ATM within two years time on the basis of BASTIAN 100mm gun launched ATM. Right now, China has encountered some difficulties in the development of small-size engines. " It is comparatively easier to upgrade from 100mm to 105mmm. But the changes on the 125mm MBT gun launched ATM are significant. It is virtually a total new design." The source stresses the major reason of importing BMP3 fire control system is to further study the designing principles of MBT gun launched laser guided ATM.

The Russian source further confirmed that according to the agreement signed in 1999 concerning the transfer of MBP3 IFV fire control system, China has already obtained latest BMP3M turrets, though the fire control system is still the earlier version. <Kanwa digest news>