Description
While developing a combat vehicle for mechanized infantry units under the MICV (Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle) program, the United States also developed an armored reconnaissance vehicle under the ARSV (Armored Reconnaissance Scout Vehicle) program. In spring 1977, both programs merged into FVS (Fighting Vehicle Systems), creating the unified Bradley Fighting Vehicle platform. The concept included two variants: the M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicle and the M3 Bradley cavalry fighting vehicle, crewed by three soldiers plus two scouts. The M3 Bradley retained the same primary armament as the IFV* but carried more ammunition—1,500 rounds for the automatic cannon, 4,300 rounds for the machine gun, and 10 TOW anti-tank missiles for heavy armored targets. Equipment included a portable ground surveillance radar, specialized radios, night vision devices, and space in the modified troop compartment for a motorcycle. The M3 Bradley later underwent upgrades to enhance protection and improve firepower.
Marking options:
- M3 Bradley, 2nd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment, Fort Knox, Kentucky (U. S. Army Training Center, Armor), January 1983
- M3 Bradley, 3rd Infantry Division, West Germany, mid-1980s
- M3 Bradley, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized). Fort Polk, Louisiana, April 1990.
- M3 Bradley, 197th Infantry Brigade (Mechanized), Operation DESERT STORM, Saudi Arabia, 1991
This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Assembly and painting required. Paint and glue is not included and is sold separately. For ages 14 years old and up. NOT A TOY.