For self-defense, the BTR-3 crew can rely on 6 x 81mm smoke grenade dischargers mounted as two banks of three launchers. These launchers are fitted along the rear turret side facings and can be used to cover tactical actions offensive or defensive in nature. The crew is also protected against NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) attack and an integrated fire suppression system counters internal fire threats. Creature comforts include a standardized air conditioning system allowing the BTR-3 crew to operate in relative comfort across tropical and desert environments.
Consistent with Soviet-era doctrine considering their original BTR family vehicles, the BTR-3 is also fully amphibious by fording water sources through some light preparation by the crew. The operators erect a trim vane and activate bilge pumps while a propeller system - located at the rear hull underside - is lowered and started. The inherently amphibious nature of the BTR-3 adds yet another welcomed layer of tactical usefulness to the discerning armored vehicle customer.
The BTR-3 has appeared in only two major production variants to date and these are designated formally as the original "BTR-3U" and the updated "BTR-3E". The BTR-3E is differentiated by its fitting of a different engine choice (believed to be a UTD-20 series diesel). A sub-variant of the BTR-3E line is the BTR-3E1 which is completed with the BM-3 "Shturm" turret system. The BTR-3E variant has also been evolved into an armored battlefield recovery vehicle known fittingly as the "BTR-3E ARV". Consistent with other vehicles in this specialized class, the BTR-3E ARV is fitted with a bulldozer-type blade, a heavy-duty crane system and a powered winch suite - all designed to clear roads of debris and destroyed vehicles.
Operators of the BTR-3 beyond the UAE military include Azerbaijan, Chad, Ecuador, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, Nigeria and Thailand. By far, the largest export operator of the vehicle is Myanmar which is signed on to procure some 1,000 BTR-3s by contract's end. At least 210 have already been completed with production being handled locally in Myanmar facilities. UAE marines operate the original BTR-3U production form with these having been completed with the "Buran-N1" turret system. UAE marine versions are known under the name of "Guardian".
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