Russia to Sell 60 Amphibious Fighting Vehicles to Indonesia

31.01.2012 Russia will deliver 60 marine fighting vehicles BMP-3F in the nearest two years to the amount exceeding $100 mln, writes Izvestiya referring to a source in defense industry. Expectedly, final cost and terms of the contract will be determined on Feb 10, 2012; however, Indonesia will receive at least 20 vehicles by the end of the current year. JSC Kurganmashzavod machinery plant will be in charge of production; the matter is a special version of BMP-3F capable to stay afloat at 3-grade storm.

According to a source in Kurganmashzavod, the amphibious craft will be made of Russian-produced components except for weapon direction systems made in Belarus. Although Indonesians are about to buy the simplest version of BMP-3F, it has precision fire capability in severe conditions and driver's broad vision window. At present, Russia produces such vehicles only for export, since defense ministry waived procurement of them in 2010.

Indonesian newspaper Koran Jakarta earlier wrote that Indonesia would receive thirty four BMP-3F in 2012, and then other 20 vehicles. All of them will be based in western and eastern parts of the country. Indonesia has already received twenty BMP-3F purchased under a contract of 2007. That sale was carried out on account of a $1-bln export credit granted by Russia. Also, credit funds were spent for procurement of helicopters Mi-17V5 and Mi-35P.