A highly uncommon Ukrainian BMP-55 heavy infantry fighting vehicle has been spotted in Ukraine, marking what appears to be its first operational deployment. The vehicle, a modified T-55 tank converted to transport troops, was seen partially covered in snow in recently circulated photos.
The BMP-55, developed by the Kharkiv Armored Repair Plant around 2000, represents an innovative approach to repurposing outdated T-55 tanks. The conversion involved removing the tank's turret and adding a new armored hull designed for troop transport. The modified vehicle can carry up to 10 soldiers who enter and exit through a rear ramp.
Reports indicate only one prototype was ever completed, making this battlefield appearance particularly noteworthy. The vehicle spotted shows a mounted anti-tank guided missile launcher, though the missiles themselves appear absent. A previously installed 12.7mm heavy machine gun has been removed.
The vehicle's current status remains unclear - while it appears abandoned, it shows no obvious battle damage. A spray-painted "M113" marking in blue on the hull may be either a humorous reference to the American armored personnel carrier or a case of misidentification.
The BMP-55's armor was designed to withstand 25-30mm autocannon fire from the front and 14.5mm armor-piercing rounds from the rear. Additional protection features include explosive reactive armor capability and anti-mine reinforcement underneath.
Originally intended for export to nations operating T-55 tanks, the BMP-55 never secured any orders and wasn't adopted by Ukrainian forces. The concept of converting tanks into infantry fighting vehicles has proven successful elsewhere, particularly in Israel with vehicles like the Achzarit and Namer.
The emergence of this rare vehicle on the Ukrainian battlefield adds another chapter to the region's rich history of armored vehicle development, though its operational role and current status remain unknown.