PRP-3 Val
NATO: BMP-SON, M1975
Overview
PRP-3 Val
PRP-3 Val artillery observation vehicle on railway flatbed.
Source: Unknown author -
© Copyright lies with original owner
1970 (Soviet state trials)
1979 - ? (RMZ)
Soviet Union - Rubtsov machine-building plant (RMZ)
Russian for "mobile reconnaissance post"
Val (official nickname)
Obyekt 767 (GABTU index)
1Zh3 (GRAU index)
BMP-SON (NATO reporting name)
BMP M1975 (NATO reporting name)
Small Fred (NATO reporting name for 1RL126)
Description
Introduction
The PRP-3 is a forward observation vehicle of Soviet origin. Development took place throughout the 1960's. Its role is to acquire the exact location of enemy unit formations. Additionally it plots enemy artillery positions for counter battery fire. The PRP-3 was succeeded on the production line by the PRP-4 series.
Layout
PRP-3 is based on chassis of the BMP-1 mechanized infantry combat vehicle. This chassis provides good cross country mobility and is amphibious. The small turret is replaced by a much large one, crammed with observation devices and a ground surveillance radar. The PRP-3 has a 5 men crew and carries no additional troops.
Firepower
Unlike the BMP-1 the PRP-3 does not feature a low pressure cannon or anti-tank guided missiles. The turret is fitted only with a 7.62mm PKT vehicle machine gun. The PRP-3 is to valuable and fragile for frontline use. In combat it is to disengage whenever possible.
Sensors
The PRP-3 features a wide variety of sensors. It has day and night vision observation devices, a laser range finder and various types of navigation systems. An 1RL126 (NATO: Small Fred) ground surveillance and counter battery radar is stowed in the rear of the turret. Radar range is about 20 km. Several types of long range radios are fitted. A 90mm flare launcher can be used for battlefield illumination.
Mobility
The PRP-3 is based on the BMP-1 chassis and shares all automotive components. The tracked chassis provides good mobility on road and in the field. The PRP-3 is amphibious and can cross rivers and small bodies of water.
Protection
The PRP-3 operates near or beyond the frontline, although it is to stay clear of direct engagements. The armor provides protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. The sensors are operated from within the vehicle.
Users
The PRP-3 was used by Soviet forces and exported to several Soviet allies. Due to the advanced nature few vehicles were produced. Exports were limited to well developed nations. In Soviet service one PRP-3 was assigned to an artillery or guided missile battalion. Furthermore it was used in the target acquisition battery of an artillery regiment.
Details
Media
PRP-3 Val
PRP-3 Val artillery observation vehicle in the field.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PRP-3 Val
Line diagram of PRP-3 Val artillery observation vehicle.
Source: Unknown author
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
PRP-3 Val
Line diagram of PRP-3 Val artillery observation vehicle.
Source: www.armyrecognition.com
Copyright: Copyright lies with original owner
Related articles
PKT
The armament of the PRP-3 consists of a single 7.62mm PKT machine gun mounted in the large turret.