View source for Bradley Fighting Vehicle

{{Short description|American tracked armored fighting vehicle}}
{{For|Bradley Fighting Vehicle variants|M3 Bradley|M2 Bradley}}
{{Infobox weapon
| is_vehicle         = yes
| name               = Bradley Fighting Vehicle<!-- Article covers M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV) and other variants. -->
| image              = [[File:Decisive Action Rotation 13-04 130218-A-ML570-001.jpg|300px|border]]
| caption            = A U.S. Army [[M2 Bradley]] on display at [[Fort Irwin]], California, in 2013
| type               = {{ubl|[[Armored fighting vehicle]]|[[Infantry fighting vehicle]]}}
| origin             = United States
| service            = 1981–present
| used_by            = {{section link||Operators}}
| variants           = {{section link||Variants}}
| designer           = [[FMC Corporation]]
| design_date        = 1963–1981
| manufacturer       = {{ubli|[[United Defense]] (1981–1995)|[[BAE Systems Platforms & Services]] (since 2004)}}
| production_date    = {{ubli|1981–1995 ([[United Defense]])|2004–present ([[BAE Systems Platforms & Services]])}}
| number             = 6,724<ref>{{cite web |url=https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/land/m2.htm |title=M2A3 and M3A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle Systems (BFVS) |publisher=man.fas.org}}</ref>
| length             = {{convert|6.55|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| width              = {{convert|3.6|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| height             = {{convert|2.98|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| weight             = {{convert|27.6|t|ST|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| suspension         = Torsion bar
| speed              = {{convert|56|km/h|mph|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| vehicle_range      = {{convert|400|km|mi|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| armour             = Spaced [[laminate]] armor:{{ubli
 | 14.5–30&nbsp;mm all-around AP protection (depending on variant)
 | [[Explosive reactive armor]] for RPG protection<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/cv/inf/M2.html |title= M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle |last=Cooke |first=Gary W. |access-date=2011-03-03 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110320004553/http://www.inetres.com/gp/military/cv/inf/M2.html |archive-date=2011-03-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.armedforces-int.com/projects/m2_m3_bradley_fighting_vehicles.html |title=M2/M3 Bradley Fighting Vehicles |publisher=Military Suppliers and News |access-date=2011-03-03 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100922154336/http://armedforces-int.com/projects/m2_m3_bradley_fighting_vehicles.html |archive-date=2010-09-22}}</ref>
}}
| primary_armament   = {{ubli|25&nbsp;mm [[M242 Bushmaster]] chain gun|2× [[BGM-71 TOW]] anti-tank missile}}
| secondary_armament = 7.62&nbsp;mm [[M240 machine gun|M240C machine gun]]
| engine             = [[Cummins]] VTA-903T diesel
| crew               = 3 + variable number of passengers depending on variant
| engine_power       = {{convert|600|hp|kW|abbr=on}}
| pw_ratio           = {{convert|{{#expr:600/30.4 round 1}}|hp/ST|kW/t}}
}}

The '''Bradley Fighting Vehicle''' ('''BFV''') is an American [[continuous track|tracked]] [[armored fighting vehicle]] of the United States developed by [[FMC Corporation]] and now manufactured by [[BAE Systems Land & Armaments]], formerly [[United Defense]]. It is named for U.S. General of the Army [[Omar Bradley]].

The Bradley is designed to transport [[infantry]] or scouts with armor protection, while providing covering fire to suppress enemy troops and [[armored vehicles]]. Variants include the [[M2 Bradley]] [[infantry fighting vehicle]] and the [[M3 Bradley]] [[reconnaissance vehicle]]. The M2 holds a crew of three—a commander, a gunner and a driver—along with six fully equipped soldiers. The M3 mainly conducts scout missions and carries two [[Cavalry scout|scout troopers]] in addition to the regular crew of three, with space for additional [[BGM-71 TOW]] missiles.

In 2014, the U.S. Army selected [[BAE Systems]]' [[Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle]] (AMPV) proposal of a turretless variant of the Bradley to replace over 2,800 [[M113 armored personnel carrier]]s.<ref name="BAE AMPV">{{cite news |last1=McLeary |first1=Paul |title=Army Awards AMPV to BAE Systems, Future Fights Loom |url=https://www.armytimes.com/land/2014/12/24/army-awards-ampv-to-bae-systems-future-fights-loom/ |access-date=3 February 2022 |work=Army Times |date=23 December 2014 }}{{Dead link|date=October 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Some 2,907 surplus Bradleys will be modified to become AMPVs for the U.S. Army.

==Design==
The Bradley was developed largely in response to the Soviet [[BMP-1|BMP family]] of infantry fighting vehicles. The Bradley was meant to serve as an [[armored personnel carrier]] and a tank-killer. One design requirement specified that it should be as fast as the [[M1 Abrams]] main battle tank, so the vehicles could maintain formation.

===Armament===
The M2/M3's primary armament is a [[25 mm caliber|25 mm]] [[chain gun]] using either 100 or 300 rounds per minute, accurate to {{convert|3000|m|mi|abbr=in|order=flip}}. It is armed with a [[BGM-71 TOW|TOW missile]]{{efn|Tube-launched optically-tracked wire-guided missile}} launcher capable of carrying two loaded missiles. The missiles, capable of destroying most tanks to a maximum range of {{cvt|4000|m|order=flip}}, can only be fired while the vehicle is stationary. The Bradley carries a coaxial 7.62&nbsp;mm medium machine gun to the right of the chain gun.

====Primary====
[[File:1-7 CAV holds CALFEX hosted by Slovakian Military.jpg|thumb|upright=1.40|left|A Bradley firing the M242 25&nbsp;mm (1&nbsp;in) chain gun]]

The Bradley is equipped with the 25&nbsp;mm [[M242 Bushmaster]] as its main weapon. The M242 is a single-barrel [[chain gun]] with an integrated dual-feed mechanism and remote feed selection.<ref name="Army Tech">[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/bradley/ Bradley M2 / M3 Tracked Armoured Fighting Vehicles, USA.] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080601212701/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/bradley/ |date=2008-06-01}} Army-Technology.com. Retrieved on August 1, 2008.</ref>{{Unreliable source? |reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST |date=June 2016}} The cannon carries 300 rounds of ammunition in two ready boxes (one of 70 rounds, the other of 230 rounds), with an extra 600 rounds in storage for the M2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle variant or 1,200 stowed rounds for the M3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicle variant. The two ready-boxes allow a selectable mix of rounds, such as the M791 APDS-T (Armor-Piercing Discarding Sabot (with) Tracer) and M792 HEI-T (High Explosive Incendiary (with) Tracer) rounds. The [[tungsten]] APDS-T rounds proved effective in [[Desert Storm]], capable of knocking out many Iraqi vehicles, including several [[T-55]] tanks.{{cn|date=January 2023}}

Subsequent ammunition developments resulted in the M919 APFSDS-T ([[armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot]] (with) [[tracer ammunition|tracer]]) round containing a finned [[depleted uranium]] penetrator similar in concept to armor-piercing munitions used in modern tanks. The M919 was used in combat during the 2003 invasion phase of [[Operation Iraqi Freedom]].{{Citation needed|date=February 2022}}

====Secondary====
[[File:LaunchingTOWmissile..jpg|thumb|A Bradley firing a TOW missile]]

An [[M240 machine gun|M240C]] [[medium machine gun]] is mounted [[Coaxial weapon|coaxial]]ly to the [[M242]], with 2,200 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. For engaging heavier targets, such as acting as an [[anti-tank]] gun, the Bradley carries a [[BGM-71 TOW|TOW missile system]]. This was modified to fire TOW II missiles from the M2A1 model onward. M2 infantry Bradleys have [[firing port]]s for [[M231 Firing Port Weapon]]s (FPWs), providing a means for the occupants to fire from within the vehicle and replacing the top-side gunners on the M113-based Armored Cavalry Assault Vehicles, although the M231 is rarely employed.{{cn|date=January 2023}}

Initial variants had six ports, but the side ports were plated over with the armor configuration on the A2 and A3 variants, leaving only the two rear-facing mounts in the loading ramp. No versions of the M3 CFV carry firing port weapons. Early versions had all six firing port mounts fitted and plated over. Newer versions retain the two ramp-mounted firing ports, though plated over.{{cn|date=January 2023}}

===Countermeasures===
[[File:Bradley Fighting Vehicle armor.png|thumb|right|Bradley armor in a diagram from 1986]]
The use of aluminum armor and the storage of large quantities of ammunition in the vehicle initially raised questions about its combat survivability. Spaced laminate belts and high-hardness steel skirts have been added to improve the side protection of later versions, while overall weight was increased to 33 tons.{{Citation needed|date=February 2022}}

All versions are equipped with two four-barreled [[M250 grenade launcher|M257]] smoke [[grenade launcher]]s on the front of the turret for creating defensive [[smoke screen]]s, which can also be loaded with [[chaff (countermeasure)|chaff]] and [[Flare#Military use|flares]].{{cn|date=January 2023}}

====Bradley Urban Survival Kit====
The Bradley Urban Survival Kit (BUSK) is an upgrade similar to the [[M1 Abrams#Tank Urban Survival Kit|M1 Abrams TUSK]] kit. It decreases the vulnerability of Bradleys in urban environments.<ref name="BUSK order">{{cite web |title=US Army Awards Bradley Conversion Kits Contract to BAE |url=http://www.army-technology.com/news/news103745.html |date=3 December 2010 |website=army-technology.com |access-date=22 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170922145135/http://www.army-technology.com/news/news103745.html |archive-date=22 September 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> The kit includes a more powerful spotlight, a wire mesh protector to keep the optics from getting scratched, and nonconductive arched strips of nylon that push away fallen electrical wires (power line protection) that would endanger crews, additional armor on the underside, and a bullet-resistant transparent shield for the commander outside the turret. It includes sensors and a software package to quickly detect when components are wearing out, and simulation software so gunners can train more realistically.<ref name="A Quiet Farewell For the M-2 Bradley"/>

The BUSK kit adds 3 tons to the vehicle's weight. Because of this, a major upgrade was planned. Additional upgrades included a stronger, 800 horsepower engine, a larger main gun, lighter armor, improved sensors and cameras to give a 360° view outside, and an improved fire extinguisher system. This system was supposed to enter service in 2012, but the Bradley became too heavy and the kit did not make it survivable enough.<ref name="A Quiet Farewell For the M-2 Bradley">[http://strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/articles/20120305.aspx A Quiet Farewell For the M-2 Bradley] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707175410/http://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htarm/articles/20120305.aspx |date=2012-07-07}} - Strategypage.com, March 5, 2012</ref> A newer BUSK III kit is now available for Bradleys incorporating a blastproof fuel cell, a blast-resistant driver seat, a turret survivability system, and an emergency ramp release. This kit was recently installed on 236 M2A3 Bradleys in South Korea and is scheduled next to be added to Bradleys of the 4th Infantry Division.<ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/july_2012_new_army_military_defence_industry_uk/bae_systems_bradley_combat_vehicle_busk_iii_upgrade_ahead_of_schedule_and_under_budget_1007126.html BUSK III] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016034325/http://www.armyrecognition.com/july_2012_new_army_military_defence_industry_uk/bae_systems_bradley_combat_vehicle_busk_iii_upgrade_ahead_of_schedule_and_under_budget_1007126.html |date=2013-10-16}} - Army Recognition.com, July 10, 2012</ref>

As of late July 2023, Ukrainian Bradleys have been fitted with BUSK upgraded armor and Bradley Reactive Armor Tiles.<ref>[https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/ukrainian-bradleys-seen-equipped-with-explosive-reactive-armor Ukrainian Bradley Fighting Vehicles Seen With Explosive Reactive Armor] STETSON PAYNE 2023-07-22 thedrive.com, July 23, 2023</ref>

===Mobility===
[[File:M2 Bradley exiting the water at Victory Pond, 1983.jpg|thumb|Flotation curtain, now discontinued]]

The Bradley is highly capable in cross-country open terrain, in accordance with one of the main design objectives of keeping pace with the M1 Abrams main battle tank. The Bradley was initially designed to float by deploying a flotation curtain around the vehicle, allowing it to "swim" at a speed of {{Convert|4.5|mph|abbr=on|lk=on}}. Later armor upgrades have negated this capability.{{sfn|Hunnicutt|2015|p=}}

==History==
===Development===
One of the early issues that drove the development of the [[infantry fighting vehicle]] (IFV) was the need to have a vehicle that could serve in a high-intensity conflict in Europe, which was feared might include the use of [[NBC weapons|nuclear, biological or chemical (NBC) type weapons]]. To work in such an environment, an IFV would have to have a life support system that protected from outside contaminants, while allowing the soldiers to fight from inside the vehicle. The earliest specification, from 1958, called for a vehicle of no more than 8 tons, mounting a turret with a 20&nbsp;mm autocannon and a 7.62&nbsp;mm machine gun, with sealed [[firing port]]s for five infantry gunners.<ref name="Green">{{cite book |last1=Green |first1=Michael |last2=James |first2=James D. |title=M2/M3 Bradley at War |date=2007 |publisher=Zenith Press |location=St. Paul, MN |isbn=978-0-7603-2523-0 |url= https://archive.org/details/m2m3bradleyatwar0000gree |access-date=9 December 2022}}</ref>

[[File:XM734 MICV-65 Prototype.png|thumb|The [[Variants of the M113 armored personnel carrier|XM734]] prototype with a 20&nbsp;mm autocannon, 1965]]
In December 1963, the Army Combat Developments Command studied the concept for a "Post 1965 Infantry Combat Vehicle", later the MICV. In the interim, the Army planned upgrades to the [[M113 armored personnel carrier|M113]] that would bridge the gap to the MICV. One such upgrade was the [[Variants of the M113 armored personnel carrier|XM734]] which added firing ports. The .50 caliber machine gun was replaced with a twin machine gun cupola or an [[Hispano-Suiza HS.820|M139]] 20&nbsp;mm autocannon.{{sfn|Hunnicutt|2015|p=256}} This test bed saw limited service in Vietnam, from 1967 to 1972,<ref>{{cite thesis |last=Trybula |first= COL David C. |date=29 May 2012 |title="Big Five" Lessons for Today and Tomorrow |type=Civilian Research Paper |publisher= Institute for Defense Analysis |url= https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA592510.pdf |access-date=7 September 2022}}</ref> where it received positive feedback from troops.{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}}{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=33}}

[[File:XM701 MICV.png|thumb|The XM701 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (MICV-65), pilot number 4, 1965]]
In 1963, the U.S. and West German governments began work on the [[MBT-70]] main battle tank design and an IFV companion project called [[MICV-65]], Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle.<ref name="Green"/>{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}} In 1964, the Army solicited bids for the MICV-65, awarding the contract for the [[Pacific Car and Foundry Company]].{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}} The first XM701 prototype was delivered in 1965 and testing was completed in 1966.<ref name="Green"/>{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}} The XM701 shared components with the M107 and [[M110 howitzer|M110]] self-propelled howitzers.{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}}

The prototypes had the following characteristics: a weight of 25–27 tons, depending on an aluminum or steel hull; a 425 hp diesel engine; a two-man turret with a 20&nbsp;mm gun; a crew of three plus nine infantry equipped with firing ports; a built-in toilet; armor that was proof against Soviet 14.5&nbsp;mm MG fire beyond a certain range; a collective and overpressure CBR system; amphibious.<ref name="Green"/> The filtration system provided a [[shirt-sleeve environment]] until the passengers dismounted. After that they could not repressurize without fear of contamination, but they could plug their suits into the vehicle's filtration system.{{cn|date=September 2022}} The vehicle was {{Convert|9|ft|m|abbr=on}} high, {{Convert|20|ft|m|abbr=on}} long, and {{Convert|10|ft|m|abbr=on}} wide.{{cn|date=September 2022}} The rising costs of the Vietnam War left less money to go around in the Pentagon's procurement budget. The XM701 project had several technical shortcomings. It had poor mobility relative to upcoming designs such as the MBT-70, and it could not be carried aboard a [[C-141 Starlifter]].{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}} The project was canceled,{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp= 5–14}} and new specifications were written in 1965.{{cn|date=September 2022}}

In 1967, the public display of the [[BMP-1]] caused additional interest in the MICV program, which concluded its studies in 1968. [[Development hell|Continued disagreements on specifications]] slowed down development.<ref name="Green"/> In 1968, an Army task force headed by Major General [[George W. Casey Sr.|George Casey]] recommended that the service once again pursue the development of an MICV. The Army opened a new program manager's office later in 1968.{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}}

[[File:XM765 MICV-65 Prototype.png|thumb|The XM765 prototype, 1965]]
From 1969 to 1970, the Army looked at two alternate vehicles that could be fielded more quickly. The [[FMC Corporation]] had developed the [[AIFV|XM765 Armored Infantry Fighting Vehicle]], an IFV version of the M113A1.{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}}<ref name="Green"/> It had a one-man turret mounting a 25&nbsp;mm gun, a sealed environment, and firing ports. The vehicle weight was 15 tons. The upper sides of the vehicle were sloped and spaced steel armor plates were added to improve protection. Firing ports for the passengers were added and a M139 20&nbsp;mm cannon was added to the commander's cupola. The U.S. Army rejected it due to limited mobility, which would have prevented it from keeping pace with the proposed MBT-70.<ref name="Green"/> The other alternate vehicle was the [[West Germany|West German]] [[Marder (IFV)|Marder]], which mounted a 20&nbsp;mm autocannon, relatively strong steel armor, and full CBR protection. The U.S. Army rejected it due to it not being amphibious, too large and heavy for air transport, and too expensive.<ref name="Green"/>

{{multiple image
 | direction = vertical
 | width =
 | footer = XM723
 | image1 = XM723 tank.JPEG
 | alt1 =
 | caption1 = An XM723 prototype being offloaded from a [[McDonnell Douglas YC-15]] during a test, 1977
 | image2 = XM723_top_view.png
 | alt2 =
 | caption2 = Top view
}}
The MICV program continued on, and in 1972, the Army solicited proposals for the MICV. In November 1972, the Army awarded FMC a contract to develop the XM723. This vehicle was similar to the XM765, but had improved armor and speed. It shared components with the [[LVTP-7]] rather than the M113.{{sfn|Zaloga|1995|pp =5–14}} FMC began construction of the XM723 prototype, which was completed in 1973. The XM723 weighed 21 tons, had spaced aluminum armor proofed against 14.5&nbsp;mm fire, had a crew of three plus eight infantry, firing ports for the infantry, and a one-man turret with a 20&nbsp;mm gun. The commander sat inside the hull.<ref name="Green"/>

To adapt the XM723 to a reconnaissance role, as well as an IFV, the turret was replaced in 1976 with a two-man turret mounting a 25&nbsp;mm Bushmaster cannon and TOW missiles. This was the TBAT-II (Tow Bushmaster Armored Turret, Two Man) design.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=77}} A two-man turret design put the commander in a position with a better view of the battlefield. The TOW missiles give the vehicle a strong antiarmor capability. The value of anti-tank missiles had been well established in the 1973 [[Yom Kippur war]]. The added political advantage was that the TOW missiles made it an easier sell to Congress, as it was a new capability not possessed by the M113.<ref name="Green"/>

General [[Donn A. Starry|Donn Starry]] wrote:
{{bquote|We in TRADOC… decided to put the TOW on the MICV because we realized that if we did not put the TOW on the MICV, we would probably never have a MICV.<ref>General Donn Starry, ''Army'' magazine, 1987.</ref>}}

In October 1976, the Army accepted a number of recommendations put forward by the MICV Task Force formed earlier that year. The Army would combine the roles of scout and IFV, as the previous Armored Reconnaissance Scout Vehicle had been canceled. The Army agreed to make the armor protection comparable to the XM723. The TBAT-II turret with its 25&nbsp;mm cannon and a TOW-missile launcher in the two-man turret would be used for the both vehicles.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=77}}<ref name="Foss">{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 1979–80 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Company |location=London |year=1979 |isbn=0-354-00588-X |pages=267–269 |edition=1st |chapter=Armoured Personnel Carriers |url= https://archive.org/details/janesarmourartil0000unse_e3c2}}</ref>

In 1977, the MICV was renamed the XM2. The scout version became the XM3.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=80}} These comprised the two variants of the Fighting Vehicle System. A third variant, called the General Support Rocket System, which later entered production as the [[M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System]], was added to the portfolio in 1977.<ref name="Foss"/>

Congress was questioning the development of the XM2 due to the high losses incurred by Soviet built BMP-1s in the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Congress suggested the development of a more heavily armored vehicle. The Army argued against this due to concerns about cost, weight, and development time.{{cn|date=September 2022}} In 1977, Congress ordered two new evaluations of the IFV program, one by the [[Government Accounting Office]] (GAO) and one by the [[Department of the Army]], under General Pat Crizer. The GAO report released in early 1978 was critical of the XM2's height, mobility, complexity, lack of clear doctrinal use, and lack of chemical/biological/radiological protection.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=87}}<ref name="Foss"/>

Based upon this criticism, the OMB deleted M2/3 funding from the budget for the 1979 financial year.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=87}} In 1978, the Crizer report asserted that the basic design was consistent with doctrine, and that development of an IFV with superior characteristics would be costly and pose significant developmental risks.{{sfn|Haworth|1999}} An additional study, the IFV/CFV Special Study Group, evaluated whether an improved version of the M113 could be used instead of the M2/3 IFV. Their conclusion was that extensive redesign would be necessary for even marginal improvements in M113 derivatives.{{sfn|Haworth|1999}} In October 1978, Congress reauthorized procurement funds.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=89}}

FMC delivered eight XM2 prototypes to the Army beginning in December 1978 and progressing through March 1979.<ref name="Foss"/>

[[File:XM2 Bradley circa 1979.png|thumb|right|A XM2 {{Circa|1979}}]]
The XM2/3 passed the Army Systems Acquisition Review Council Milestone III review in 1979.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=89}} In December 1979, the XM2 and XM3 were type classified as the M2 and M3 respectively.<ref name= "Foss1981">{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 1981–82 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Co. |location=London |year=1981 |isbn= 0-7106-0727-X |pages=323–326 |edition=2nd |chapter=Armoured Personnel Carriers |url = https://archive.org/details/janesarmourartil0000unse_d5y8}}</ref> Final approval for production came from the Secretary of Defense in February 1980.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=89}} In October 1981 the vehicle was named the "Bradley" for World War II Army General [[Omar Bradley]], who had died earlier that year.<ref>{{cite news |title=Vehicle to Honor Bradley |url= https://www.nytimes.com/1981/10/18/us/vehicle-to-honor-bradley.html |access-date=20 August 2018 |work=The New York Times |agency=Associated Press |date=18 October 1981 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074834/https://www.nytimes.com/1981/10/18/us/vehicle-to-honor-bradley.html |archive-date=20 August 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Production history===
The Bradley consists of two types of vehicles, the M2 Infantry Fighting Vehicle and the M3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicle. The M3 CFV was originally planned to be named after General [[Jacob L. Devers]],{{sfn|Haworth|1999}} but it was decided the Bradley name would apply to both, since both vehicles are based on the same chassis. They differ in only some details. The M2 carries a crew of three and a six-man [[Mechanized infantry|infantry]] [[squad]]. The M3 carries the crew of three and a two-man scout team and additional radios, the [[BGM-71 TOW]] and [[M47 Dragon]] or [[FGM-148 Javelin]] missiles.

The first BFVs came off the production line in May 1980.<ref name= "Foss1981"/> The Army accepted delivery of the first production vehicles in May 1981.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 1982–83 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Company |location=London |year=1982 |isbn=0-7106-0747-4 |pages=371–4 |edition=3rd |chapter=Armoured Personnel Carriers |url = https://archive.org/details/janesarmourartil0000unse_p4o1}}</ref> The first combat unit to be equipped with Bradleys (four M2s and six M3s), in March 1983, was the 1st Battalion, 41st (Mechanized) Infantry, 2nd Armored Division.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://texashistory.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metapth309597/m1/1/zoom/ |newspaper= Fort Hood Sentinel |date=March 31, 1983 |author=A.C. Colletti |title=2 AD Combat Unit Receives Bradleys |url-status=live |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141030231811/http://texashistory.unt.edu/ark%3A/67531/metapth309597/m1/1/zoom/ |archive-date=October 30, 2014}}</ref> Several years later, the unit commander, Lt. Col. Franklin W. Trapnell, Jr., became the Army's system manager for the Bradley program.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://apnews.com/be54a07078d42ce5f1f9655ad3f262fa |title= FMC Gets New Bradley Fighting Vehicle Contract |date=7 July 1988 |publisher=Associated Press |access-date=October 30, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141102044017/http://www.apnewsarchive.com/1988/FMC-Gets-New-Bradley-Fighting-Vehicle-Contract/id-be54a07078d42ce5f1f9655ad3f262fa |archive-date=November 2, 2014}}</ref>

[[Saudi Arabia]] stated an interest in acquiring the Bradley in 1989 and began importing the vehicle in 1990.<ref name = "Foss2011"/>

Bradley production concluded in 1995, with a total of 6,724 Bradleys (4,641 M2s and 2,083 M3s) produced for the U.S. Army.{{sfn|Hunnicutt|2015|p=298}} The total cost of the program was $5.7 billion, and the average unit cost $3.2 million.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m2.htm |title= M2A3 and M3A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle Systems (BFVS) |publisher= Federation of American Scientists |date= May 5, 2000 |access-date= 2014-10-30 |url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141030221121/http://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m2.htm |archive-date= October 30, 2014}}</ref> This was despite an unmet requirement by the U.S. Army for 8,709 Bradleys as of 1992. Remanufacture of A0 variants to A2 standard began at the same time.<ref name="Foss2011">{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first = Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 2011–2012 |publisher=Janes Information Group |location=Surrey |year=2011 |isbn=978-0-71062-960-9 |pages=458–64 |edition=32nd |chapter= Armored Personnel Carriers |url= https://archive.org/details/janesarmourartil0000unse}}</ref> As of 2017, 2,907 Bradleys are slated to be modified to become [[Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle]]s for the U.S. Army. 1,600 to 2,000 older Bradleys remain in Army depots as of 2017. Some of these Bradleys will be taken from these stocks.<ref name="Foss 2017">{{cite book |last1=Foss |first1=Christopher F. |author1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Land Warfare Platforms: Armoured Fighting Vehicles 2017–2018 |date=2017 |publisher=Janes Information Group |location=Surrey |isbn=978-0-71063-227-2 |pages=284–590}}</ref>{{Page needed |date=November 2023}}

The [[Red River Army Depot]] in Texarkana, Texas, is responsible for maintenance and repair of the Bradley system.

====Col. James Burton and the joint live fire testing program====
Even after the troubled development history of the Bradley<ref>Diane L. Urbina. "Lethal beyond all expectations: The Bradley Fighting Vehicle"—in chapter 12 of George F. Hofmann and [[Donn A. Starry]] (editors), ''Camp Colt to Desert Storm: The History of U.S. Armored Forces'', Lexington, Kentucky; The University Press of Kentucky, {{ISBN|0-8131-2130-2}}.</ref> additional problems occurred after production started.<ref name= Pentagon_Wars /> Air Force Col. [[James G. Burton]], an [[Office of the Secretary of Defense]] official, advocated the use of comprehensive live fire tests on fully loaded military vehicles to evaluate their survivability. The Army and Air Force agreed to establish the joint live fire testing program in 1984.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|pp=128–29}}

When testing the Bradley, disagreements occurred between Burton and the [[Aberdeen Proving Ground]]'s [[Ballistic Research Laboratory]] (BRL), which preferred smaller, more controlled, "building block" tests.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=129}} They claimed such limited, completely unrealistic, according to Burton, testing would improve the databases used to model vehicle survivability, as opposed to full tests with random shots that would provide a far more accurate picture of its performance under real battlefield conditions but produce less useful statistical data.{{sfn|Haworth|1999}}

Burton insisted on a series of "[[overmatch]]" tests in which weapons would be fired at the Bradley that were known to be able to penetrate its armor easily, including Russian ordnance. Burton saw attempts to avoid such tests as dishonest, while the BRL saw them as wasteful, as they already knew the vehicle would fail.{{sfn|Haworth|1999}} The disagreements became so contentious that testing was suspended, while a congressional inquiry resulted. Additional improvements to vehicle survivability were added to production vehicles by 1988. Though Burton's actions accelerated the implementation of these changes, the changes themselves were almost wholly the work of the BRL.{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=131-132}}

Burton was ordered to transfer from his post at OSD, prompting yet more congressional scrutiny. Burton retired from the Air Force rather than accept the new post. The House Armed Services Committee found that Burton's claims of malfeasance were rather due to "a long-standing fundamental disagreement over testing methodology and, more importantly, the inability of OSD and the Army to reach an agreement on how the test is conducted. ...The Army has complied with many of Colonel Burton's issues of concern over the past several years."{{sfn|Haworth|1999|p=131-132}}

In 1993, Burton released his book ''The Pentagon Wars: Reformers Challenge the Old Guard''.<ref name=Pentagon_Wars>{{cite book |last= Burton |first= James G. |year= 1993 |publisher= Naval Institute Press |title= The Pentagon Wars: Reformers Challenge the Old Guard |isbn= 1-55750-081-9 |publication-place= Annapolis, MD}}</ref><ref>Weiner, Tim. [https://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/03/books/corrupt-from-top-to-bottom.html?pagewanted=1 "Corrupt From Top to Bottom"] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161130075043/http://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/03/books/corrupt-from-top-to-bottom.html?pagewanted=1 |date=2016-11-30}}. ''New York Times'', 3 October 1993.</ref>  The book was adapted into the black comedy film ''[[The Pentagon Wars]]'' in 1998.

===Combat history===
[[File:Bradley on fire.jpg|thumb|right|An M2 Bradley burns after being hit by Iraqi fire three times<ref>[http://www.gulflink.osd.mil/declassimages/army/19980729/980715_sep96_sagwi1_0120.html#prof Declass Image] gulflink.osd.mil {{dead link|date=February 2024}}</ref> during the [[Battle of 73 Easting]]]]

====Gulf War====
During the [[Gulf War]], M2 Bradleys destroyed more Iraqi armored vehicles than the [[M1 Abrams]].{{cn|date=January 2024}} A few kills against Iraqi [[T-72]] tanks at close range are reported.<ref>{{cite web |last=Rodgers |first=Walter |date=6 April 2003 |title=10 minutes of the most intense fighting |url=http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/meast/04/05/sprj.irq.lyle/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160826104800/http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/meast/04/05/sprj.irq.lyle/ |archive-date=26 August 2016 |access-date=16 August 2016 |website=[[CNN]]}}</ref>  A total of 20 Bradleys were lost—three by enemy fire and 17 due to friendly fire incidents. Another 12 were damaged. The gunner of one Bradley was killed when his vehicle was hit by Iraqi fire, possibly from an Iraqi [[BMP-1]], during the [[Battle of 73 Easting]].<ref>[http://www.gao.gov/products/NSIAD-92-94 NSIAD-92-94, "Operation Desert Storm: Early Performance Assessment of Bradley and Abrams".] {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140221225558/http://www.gao.gov/products/NSIAD-92-94 |date=2014-02-21}} U.S. General Accounting Office, 10 January 1992. Quote: "According to information provided by the Army's Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans, 20 Bradleys were destroyed during the Gulf war. Another 12 Bradleys were damaged, but four of these were quickly repaired. Friendly fire accounted for 17 of the destroyed Bradleys and three of the damaged ones."</ref> To remedy some problems that were identified as contributing factors in the friendly fire incidents, infrared [[Combat Identification Panel|identification panels]] and other marking/identification measures were added to the Bradleys.

====Iraq War====
In the Iraq War, the Bradley proved vulnerable to [[improvised explosive device]] and [[rocket-propelled grenade]] attacks, but casualties were light with the crew able to escape. In 2006, total losses included 55 Bradleys destroyed and some 700 others damaged.<ref>L.B. Thompson, L.J. Korb, C.P. Wadhams. [http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/library/resources/documents/defense/army-equiptment-after-iraq.pdf "Army Equipment After Iraq"] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101230232949/http://www.lexingtoninstitute.org/library/resources/documents/Defense/army-equiptment-after-iraq.pdf |date=2010-12-30}}. [[Lexington Institute]] and [[Center for American Progress]].</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/12/04/AR2006120401347.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006084444/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/12/04/AR2006120401347.html |url-status=dead |title=U.S. Army Battling To Save Equipment |first=Ann Scott |last=Tyson |date=December 5, 2006 |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |via= washingtonpost.com}}</ref> By the end of the war, about 150 Bradleys had been destroyed.<ref>[http://www.army-technology.com/features/featurethe-us-armys-armoured-vehicle-conundrum-4369690/ The US Army's armored vehicle conundrum] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141004171739/http://www.army-technology.com/features/featurethe-us-armys-armoured-vehicle-conundrum-4369690/ |date=2014-10-04}} - Army-Technology.com, 11 September 2014</ref>{{Unreliable source?|reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST|date=June 2016}}

====Russo-Ukrainian War====
[[File:Bradley IFV with Ukrainian crew.jpg|thumb|Bradley infantry fighting vehicle in Ukraine in July 2023]]
During the [[Russian invasion of Ukraine]], the US donated about 190 Bradleys to Ukraine's armed forces. Ukraine's first documented use of Bradleys occurred in the Zaporizhzhia region after Ukraine launched its southern counteroffensive in June 2023. An early [[Battle of Mala Tokmachka|assault near Mala Tokmachka]] on June 8 was unsuccessful, and imagery showed that Ukraine lost at least 17 Bradleys of M2 variant.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/06/27/25-tanks-and-fighting-vehicles-gone-in-a-blink-the-ukrainian-defeat-near-mala-tokmachka-was-worst-than-we-thought/?sh=69525a037918|title=25 Tanks And Fighting Vehicles, Gone In A Blink: The Ukrainian Defeat Near Mala Tokmachka Was Worst Than We Thought|work=Forbes|first=David|last=Axe|date=27 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230629074507/https://gum.criteo.com/syncframe?origin=publishertag&topUrl=www.forbes.com|archive-date=29 June 2023}}</ref> On 19 July, [[Hanna Maliar]], Ukraine's deputy defense minister, claimed on Telegram that a M2 Bradley had killed Russian infantrymen during fighting in the Zaporizhzhia region. She further claimed that using [[TOW missile]]s the M2 Bradley was able to destroy two Russian [[T-72]] tanks. The Bradley was assigned to the [[47th Mechanized Brigade (Ukraine)|47th Mechanized Brigade]]. These claims could not be independently verified.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://t.me/annamaliar/944 |title=Ганна Маляр }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Jankowicz |first=Mia |date=19 July 2023 |title=Ukraine says it took out 2 Russian T-72 tanks using a single US-supplied Bradley IFV |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/ukraine-says-destroyed-2-russian-t72-tanks-us-bradley-ifv-2023-7?r=US&IR=T |website=Business Insider}}</ref>

On 12 January 2024, video emerged of a pair of Ukrainian M2A2 Bradleys from the 47th Mechanized Brigade engaging and disabling a Russian [[T-90|T-90M]] tank at close range with their autocannons in [[Stepove, Donetsk Oblast|Stepove]], Ukraine.<ref>{{cite tweet |user= Osinttechnical |number= 1745942957486751770 |title=Avdiivka. Unprecedented drone footage showing a pair of US-supplied M2A2 Bradley IFVs in Ukrainian service engaging in a nearly 10 minute duel with a Russian T-90M MBT, successfully disabling it.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Barnes |first=Joe |date=2024-01-18 |title=Watch: Russia's most advanced tank destroyed by US Bradley fighting vehicle |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/01/18/ukraine-bradley-fighting-vehicles-disabled-russian-tank/ |url-access=limited |access-date=2024-01-20 |work=The Telegraph |language=en-GB |issn=0307-1235}}</ref>

As of 16 September 2025, 182 of the donated Bradleys had been confirmed destroyed, damaged, abandoned or captured (96 destroyed, 73 damaged and/or abandoned and 13 captured) by the [[Netherlands|Dutch]] [[open-source intelligence]] website [[Oryx (website)|Oryx]].<ref name="oryx1">{{Cite web |last=Oryx |title=Attack On Europe: Documenting Ukrainian Equipment Losses During The Russian Invasion Of Ukraine |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html |access-date=2025-06-10<!-- update this to match the accessed date --> |website=Oryx}}</ref>

===Replacement===
U.S. Army began efforts to replace the Bradley in the mid-1980s under the [[Armored Systems Modernization]] program. The Army studied creating several vehicle variants under a common heavy chassis to replace main battle tanks and Bradleys. This effort was canceled in 1992 due to the collapse of the Soviet Union.<ref name="629 mil">{{cite news |last1=Schafer |first1=Susanne M. |title=Army drops contracts for armored vehicles |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/366666360/?terms=%22Armored%20Systems%20Modernization%22&match=1 |access-date=18 November 2021 |work=Austin American-Statesman |agency=Associated Press |date=9 October 1992}}</ref>

The U.S. Army began the [[Future Combat Systems]] (FCS) [[Future Combat Systems Manned Ground Vehicles|Manned Ground Vehicles]] program in 1999. This family of 18-ton lightweight tracked vehicles centered around a common chassis. It would consist of eight variants, including infantry carriers, scouting vehicles and main battle tanks. FCS was canceled in 2009 due to budget cuts.

In 2010, the Army began the [[Ground Combat Vehicle]] program to replace the M2 Bradley. Entries from BAE Systems and [[General Dynamics]] were selected for evaluation. Concerns grew around the vehicle's proposed weight of around 70 tons.<ref name="GCVweight">{{cite news |last1=Freedberg Jr |first1=Sydney J. |date=27 November 2013 |title=BAE, GD: We Can Cut Weight From Army's GCV |work=Breaking Defense |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2013/11/bae-general-dynamics-we-can-get-weight-down-on-army-gcv/ |access-date=21 January 2022}}</ref> The GCV was cancelled in 2014 due to sequestration budget cuts.

[[File:Bradley Advanced Running Gear.jpg|thumb|right|The Army conducts tests of an Advanced Running Gear using a Bradley Fighting Vehicle as a surrogate for the OMFV]]
The Army's Bradley replacement effort was restarted under the Future Fighting Vehicle (FFV) program. In May 2015, General Dynamics and BAE Systems, the two prime contractors involved with the GCV, were awarded contracts to develop design concepts for the FFV.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/606859/ |title= Contract |access-date=2015-06-01 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150602231544/http://www.defense.gov/Contracts/Contract.aspx?ContractID=5552 |archive-date= 2015-06-02}}</ref><ref>[http://www.armyrecognition.com/june_2015_global_defense_security_news_uk/bae_systems_gdls_to_develop_design_concepts_for_the_u.s._future_fighting_vehicle_30206152.html "BAE Systems, GDLS to Develop Design Concepts for the U.S. Future Fighting Vehicle"]. {{webarchive |url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150603232532/http://www.armyrecognition.com/june_2015_global_defense_security_news_uk/bae_systems_gdls_to_develop_design_concepts_for_the_u.s._future_fighting_vehicle_30206152.html |date=2015-06-03}}.  Army recognition, 2 June 2015</ref> In June 2018, the Army established the [[Next Generation Combat Vehicle]] (NGCV) program to replace the M2 Bradley.<ref name="NGCV portfolio"/>

In October 2018, the program was re-designated as the [[Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle]] (OMFV). The NGCV program was expanded as a portfolio of next-generation vehicles including tanks and the Bradley-based Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle, a successor to the M113 family.<ref name="NGCV portfolio">{{cite news |last1=Tressel |first1=Ashley |title=MPF, AMPV now part of NGCV family of vehicles |url= https://insidedefense.com/daily-news/mpf-ampv-now-part-ngcv-family-vehicles |access-date=21 January 2022 |work=Inside Defense |date=12 October 2018}}</ref> This program placed much of the cost burden of development on contractors, causing many competitors to drop out. In February 2020, the Army restarted the program, promising to take on more responsibility for funding.<ref name="restart OMFV">{{cite news |last1= Tressel |first1=Ashley |title=Army reopens competition for Bradley replacement |url= https://insidedefense.com/daily-news/army-reopens-competition-bradley-replacement |access-date=21 January 2022 |work=Inside Defense |date=7 February 2020}}</ref>

==Variants==
[[File:M2 loading.jpg|thumb|upright|Soldiers from the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment load into the rear of an M2 Bradley in Iraq.]]

===M2 Bradley===
{{main|M2 Bradley}}

The M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) consists of five variants: the M2, M2A1, M2A2, M2A2 ODS (Operation Desert Storm improvements), and M2A3. Their main mission is to provide protected transport of an [[infantry squad]], up to six passengers, to critical points. Aside from carrying [[mechanized infantry]] into close contact with the enemy, the M2 can provide overwatching fire to dismounting infantrymen. It is adequately armored to provide protection against [[small arms]] fire and artillery, and able to combat any vehicle on the battlefield using its TOW missiles.{{cn|date=January 2024}}

The M2 IFV has six external firing ports for the squad [[M231 Firing Port Weapon]] on the M2 and M2A1 versions only. Four ports were removed on the sides of the vehicle on the M2A2 and A3 versions, and only two in the ramp remain. These ports allow passengers to engage the enemy from within the protection of the Bradley vehicle. These firing ports are almost always covered by additional armor kits and a Bradley with them operable is rare. The proper use of M231 FPWs was rare in practice.

The M2 Bradley unit cost is $1.11 million (FY 1993 constant dollars)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Oestergaard |first=Joakim Kasper |date=10 June 2014 |title=M2A3 and M3A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle |url=http://www.bga-aeroweb.com/Defense/Bradley-Fighting-Vehicle.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160329104747/http://www.bga-aeroweb.com/Defense/Bradley-Fighting-Vehicle.html |archive-date=29 March 2016 |access-date=12 June 2016 |website=bga-aeroweb.com}}</ref> US$1.84M in 2016 (inflation adjusted).

===M3 Bradley===
{{main|M3 Bradley}}

The M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV) is virtually identical to the M2 Bradley except that it is equipped as a [[cavalry]]/[[Reconnaissance|scout]] vehicle. Instead of holding six infantrymen in the payload compartment, it is designed to seat two scouts and hold additional radios and ammunition. Lacking are the six external firing ports present on the M2 Bradley IFV.{{cn|date=January 2024}}

===M4 command and control vehicle (C2V)===
[[File:M4 Command and Control Vehicle c. 1999.png|thumb|upright|Command and control vehicle c. 1999]]

The C2V is based on the M993 [[M270 multiple launch rocket system]] (MLRS) carrier chassis and is designed to provide an automated tactical command post and operations centers. It was designed to replace the [[M113 armored personnel carrier|M113]]-based M577A2 command post carrier.<ref>{{cite web |last=Pike |first=John |date=5 May 2000 |title=M4 Command and Control Vehicle (C2V) |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/c2v.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111212534/http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/c2v.htm |archive-date=2013-11-11 |access-date=2013-11-16 |publisher=Fas.org}}</ref> Mass production was cancelled in late 1999. Around 25 vehicles were finally produced for the US Army.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/notice.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503102441/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-C4I-Systems/M4-Command-and-Control-Vehicle-C2V-United-States.html |url-status=dead |title=Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's &#124; IHS |archive-date=May 3, 2012 |website= articles.janes.com}}</ref>

===Bradley Stinger Fighting Vehicle (BSFV)===
The BSFV is designed specifically for the carriage and support of a [[FIM-92|Stinger]] [[MANPADS]] team. The MANPADS-Under-Armor (MUA) dismounted Stinger team concept of the BSFV left the operators exposed, so it was replaced by the M6 Linebacker, which retained the dismounted Stinger missile capability.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pike |first=John |date=5 March 2000 |title=M6 Bradley Linebacker (BL) |url=https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/land/m6.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222084059/https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m6.htm |archive-date=22 December 2015 |website=Fas.org}}</ref>

===M6 Linebacker===
[[File:M6 Linebacker, 5th Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, Iraq, 2005.jpg|thumb|An M6 Linebacker along the highway near [[Balad, Iraq]], October 2005]]

An air defense variant, these vehicles are modified M2A2 ODSs with the TOW missile system replaced with a four-tube [[FIM-92|Stinger]] missile system. The U.S. Army awarded the initial contract in 1995, calling for 260 Bradleys converted into the configuration.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Werrell |first=Kenneth P. |date=August 2005 |title=Archie to SAM: A Short Operational History of Ground-Based Air Defense Systems |url=https://www.airuniversity.af.edu/Portals/10/AUPress/Books/B_0028_WERRELL_ARCHIE_TO_SAM.pdf |access-date=2 December 2024 |website=[[Air University (United States Air Force)]] |page=103 }}</ref> From 2005 to 2006, M6 Linebackers had their Stinger missile systems removed and were converted to standard M2 Bradley ODS IFVs.<ref>[http://www.army-technology.com/projects/linebacker/ Bradley Linebacker] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130901052352/http://www.army-technology.com/projects/linebacker/ |date=2013-09-01}} – Army-Technology.com</ref>{{Unreliable source? |reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST |date=June 2016}} By 2017, the US Army was exploring reintroducing air defense Bradleys with the reemergence of hostile aerial threats.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J. |date=2 August 2017 |title=Laser In Front, Grunts In Back: Boeing Offers Anti-Aircraft Vehicles |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2017/08/laser-in-front-grunts-in-back-boeing-offers-anti-aircraft-vehicles/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808033358/http://breakingdefense.com/2017/08/laser-in-front-grunts-in-back-boeing-offers-anti-aircraft-vehicles/ |archive-date=8 August 2017 |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref>

In October 2017, BAE displayed an updated version of the Bradley Linebacker called the M-SHORAD (Mobile Short-Range Air Defense) equipped with a pMHR (portable multi-mission hemispheric radar) search radar mounted around the turret, a fire-control radar, and a jammer on top of the turret to non-kinetically defeat [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s (UAVs). The main gun was replaced with an [[M230|XM914 30&nbsp;mm autocannon]] with [[airburst round]]s, and a missile launcher that could accommodate various missiles including the Stinger, [[AIM-9|AIM-9X Sidewinder]], or others.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J. |date=10 October 2017 |title=BAE Turns Bradley Into MiG-Killer |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2017/10/bae-shorad-at-ausa/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171022032410/https://breakingdefense.com/2017/10/bae-shorad-at-ausa/ |archive-date=22 October 2017 |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=18 October 2017 |title=Everything's coming up SHORAD |url=https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/ausa/2017/10/18/everythings-coming-up-shorad/ |website=Defense News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=30 October 2017 |title=BAE Systems presents Bradley M-SHORAD air defense AUSA 2017 |url=https://armyrecognition.com/ausa_2017_show_daily_news_tv_coverage_report/bae_systems_presents_bradley_m-shorad_air_defense_ausa_2017.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107065408/https://armyrecognition.com/ausa_2017_show_daily_news_tv_coverage_report/bae_systems_presents_bradley_m-shorad_air_defense_ausa_2017.html |archive-date=7 November 2017 |website=Army Recognition}}</ref>

The US Army chose to create an M-SHORAD vehicle out of the [[Stryker]] instead of the Bradley. Although the tracked Bradley has better mobility on soft ground, the wheeled Stryker has sufficient mobility to perform tactical air defense while also having greater weight, space, and electrical power capacity to make upgrades.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J. |date=29 March 2018 |title=Army Accelerates Air & Missile Defense Five Years: MSHORAD, MML, Lasers |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2018/03/army-accelerates-air-missile-defense-five-years-mshorad-mml-lasers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180402035409/https://breakingdefense.com/2018/03/army-accelerates-air-missile-defense-five-years-mshorad-mml-lasers/ |archive-date=2 April 2018 |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref>

===M7 Bradley Fire Support Vehicle===
The B-FiST has replaced the existing armored FiST vehicle (FiST-V) platform, the [[M981 FISTV]], in the U.S. Army inventory. The [[BGM-71 TOW|TOW/UA]] suite is replaced by target location equipment, integrated with the Bradley ISU sight unit. It carries equipment for use by dismounted observers. A hybrid [[Global Positioning System|GPS]]/[[Inertial navigation system|inertial]]/[[dead reckoning]] navigation system robustly provides the vehicle location as a reference point.

===Bradley Engineer Squad Vehicle===
The Bradley ESV enables [[Sapper|engineer assets]] to maintain momentum with the main force while conducting engineer and sapper operations. The ESV is equipped with standard combat engineering equipment and can employ unique mission equipment packages for obstacle neutralization.<ref name="types">[http://www.ws-wr.com/epk/BAE_Bradley/downloads/BradleyCombatSystem_Printer-Friendly.doc BAE Systems - Bradley Combat Systems Electronic Press Kit] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130524083707/http://www.ws-wr.com/epk/BAE_Bradley/downloads/BradleyCombatSystem_Printer-Friendly.doc |date=2013-05-24}}</ref>

===Bradley Battle Command Vehicle===
The Bradley BCV allows brigade commanders to move around the battlefield away from their command post. The BCV integrates an enhanced command and control communication suite to maintain digital interface with maneuver forces and the Tactical Operations Center.<ref name="types"/>

===M993/M270 multiple launch rocket system carrier vehicle===
{{main|M270 multiple launch rocket system}}

The M270 MLRS is composed of two major sections, a M269 launcher loader module mated to a M993 carrier vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m270.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222082906/https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m270.htm |url-status=dead |title=M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System - MLRS |archive-date=December 22, 2015}}</ref> The M993 carrier vehicle portion is a modified BFV chassis.{{cn|date=January 2024}}

===Black Knight===
{{main|Black Knight (vehicle)}}

The Black Knight prototype [[unmanned ground vehicle|unmanned ground combat vehicle]] being developed by BAE that resembles a tank and makes extensive use of components from the Bradley Combat Systems program to reduce costs and simplify maintenance. It is designed to be remotely operated from a BFV commander's station while riding mounted, as well as being controllable by dismounted infantry.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.baesystems.com/ProductsServices/l_and_a_gs_black_knight.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090708141647/http://www.baesystems.com/ProductsServices/l_and_a_gs_black_knight.html |url-status=dead |title=BAE Systems Black Knight |archive-date=July 8, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Baglole |first=Joel |title=Black Knight - Future Combat |url=http://usmilitary.about.com/od/weapons/a/blacknight.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106091253/http://usmilitary.about.com/od/weapons/a/blacknight.htm |archive-date=6 January 2012 |website=usmilitary.about.com}}</ref>

===Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle===
{{main|Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle}}
[[File:DarkHorse AMPV.jpg|thumb|right|The U.S. Army tests the BAE [[Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle]] in 2018]]

For the U.S. Army's Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) program to replace the M113, BAE offered a variant of the Bradley. The AMPV submission was a turretless Bradley chassis, but US Army requirements favored providing greater cargo space, increased armor, upgraded engine and electrical systems. For increased protection, the Army required a [[V-hull|V-shaped]] bottom replaces the flat base.  These changes created a wholly new chassis design that is based on and shares common components with the Bradley but is a distinctly new vehicle. The AMPV has several modular roof sections to adapt to each role. For fuel efficiency, BAE has considered using a [[Hybrid vehicle drivetrain|hybrid-electric drive]], similar to their [[Ground Combat Vehicle#BAE Systems|Ground Combat Vehicle]]. It was suggested that surplus Bradleys could be retrofitted into this version.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Freedberg Jr |first1=Sydney J. |last2=Clark |first2=Colin |date=2 November 2012 |title=GD's Tracked Stryker Aims To Knock BAE Out In Race to Replace M-113 |url=http://defense.aol.com/2012/11/02/gds-tracked-stryker-aims-to-knock-bae-out-in-race-to-replace-m/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117054149/http://defense.aol.com/2012/11/02/gds-tracked-stryker-aims-to-knock-bae-out-in-race-to-replace-m/ |archive-date=17 November 2012 |website=Defense.AOL.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Parsons |first=Dan |date=January 2013 |title=Vendors Pour Funding Into Armored Vehicle Development |url=http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2013/January/Pages/VendorsPourFundingIntoArmoredVehicleDevelopment.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150904034738/http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2013/January/Pages/VendorsPourFundingIntoArmoredVehicleDevelopment.aspx |archive-date=4 September 2015 |website=National Defense Magazine}}</ref>

BAE said that they have the capability to build up to eight AMPV platforms per day, the same as the Bradley during the height of its production, as both vehicles share the same production line and supply base.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wasserbly |first=Daniel |date=22 October 2013 |title=Army envisions AMPV production spike for emergency contingencies |url=http://www.janes.com/article/28836/ausa-2013-army-envisions-ampv-production-spike-for-emergency-contingencies |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131026063846/http://www.janes.com/article/28836/ausa-2013-army-envisions-ampv-production-spike-for-emergency-contingencies |archive-date=26 October 2013 |website=Janes.com}}</ref> A mortar carrier vehicle can be converted from the original Bradley in 40 days.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parsons |first=Dan |date=24 October 2013 |title=Industry to Army: The Vehicles You Own Can Perform Future Missions |url=http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=1318 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160207220406/http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/blog/Lists/Posts/Post.aspx?ID=1318 |archive-date=7 February 2016 |website=National Defense Magazine}}</ref> Underbody blast tests demonstrated that AMPV survivability requirements could be met with a Bradley platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freedberg Jr |first=Sydney J. |date=29 January 2014 |title=Uparmored Bradley Could Be Tough Enough For AMPV: Testers |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2014/01/uparmored-bradley-could-be-tough-enough-for-ampv-testers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312141216/http://breakingdefense.com/2014/01/uparmored-bradley-could-be-tough-enough-for-ampv-testers/ |archive-date=12 March 2014 |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref> BAE projected their AMPV submission to have similar operating costs to the M113 and lower costs than an M2 Bradley, as the platform's most expensive components are related to the omitted turret.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gourley |first=Scott R. |date=5 June 2014 |title=BAE Submits Bradley-based Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) Proposal |url=https://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/bae-submits-bradley-based-armored-multi-purpose-vehicle-ampv-proposal/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714190330/http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/bae-submits-bradley-based-armored-multi-purpose-vehicle-ampv-proposal/ |archive-date=14 July 2014 |website=Defense Media Network}}</ref> To better accommodate modern electronics, the turretless Bradley has 78% more internal space than the M113, and two 400-amp generators.<ref>[http://www.armytimes.com/story/defense/show-daily/ausa/2015/03/31/us-army-leaders-make-case-for-baes-ampv/70728052/ US Army Leaders Make Case for AMPV Decision] {{Webarchive |url=https://archive.today/20150406035852/http://www.armytimes.com/story/defense/show-daily/ausa/2015/03/31/us-army-leaders-make-case-for-baes-ampv/70728052/ |date=2015-04-06}} - Armytimes.com, 31 March 2015</ref>

BAE Systems rolled out the first AMPV prototype on 15 December 2016. Funding allows for 160 vehicles to be produced per year as of 2016, which is enough to field one and a half brigades.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=15 December 2016 |title=BAE Systems Presents First AMPV Prototype to US Army |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2016/12/15/bae-systems-presents-first-ampv-prototype-to-us-army/ |website=Defense News}}</ref> The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, [[3rd Infantry Division (United States)|3rd Infantry Division]] was the first unit to be equipped with the AMPV in March 2023.<ref>[https://www.army.mil/article/264804/army_delivers_newest_combat_vehicle Army delivers newest combat vehicle]. ''[[Army.mil]].'' 14 March 2023.</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Judson |first=Jen |date=14 March 2023 |title=First unit gets new Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicles replacing old M113s |url=https://www.defensenews.com/land/2023/03/14/first-unit-gets-new-armored-multi-purpose-vehicles-replacing-old-m113s/ |website=Defense News}}</ref> A contract for full-rate production was awarded in September 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roque |first=Ashley |date=1 September 2023 |title=BAE Systems, Army ink $797 million AMPV production deal |url=https://breakingdefense.com/2023/09/bae-systems-army-ink-797-million-ampv-production-deal/ |website=Breaking Defense}}</ref>

=== Other ===
* '''Battle Command Vehicle''': The vehicle was visually similar to the M2 Bradley on which it is based. Some ammunition space was eliminated in order to accommodate communications equipment and workstations for battle commanders. [[United Defense LP]] converted two M2 Bradleys to this configuration, which the Army tested at Fort Hood in 1997.<ref>{{cite book |editor1-last=Foss |editor1-first=Christopher F. |editor1-link=Christopher F. Foss |title=Jane's Armour and Artillery 2002–2003 |publisher=Janes Information Group |location=Surrey |year=2002 |isbn=0-7106-2425-5 |pages=610 |edition=23rd |chapter=Armoured Command Vehicles}}</ref>

==Operators==
{{Maplink|frame=yes|text={{legend|#7c7af7|Current Bradley operators}}
<!-- Current operators -->
|id1=Q224|type1=shape|fill1=#0000FF|stroke-width1=0|title1=Croatia
|id2=Q30|type2=shape|fill2=#0000FF|stroke-width2=0|title2=United States
|id3=Q822|type3=shape|fill3=#0000FF|stroke-width3=0|title3=Lebanon
|id4=Q851|type4=shape|fill4=#0000FF|stroke-width4=0|title4=Saudi Arabia
|id5=Q212|type5=shape|fill5=#0000FF|stroke-width5=0|title5=Ukraine
}}
<!--READ FIRST: This section is for cited entries only. Please do not add or change the content of entries into this list without a citation from a reliable source. All entries without a citation will be removed. Thank you.-->

* {{flag|Croatia}}: 89 M2A2 ODS<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-17 |title=Anušić at handover of the Bradley vehicle: Owing to excellent cooperation with the USA, the Croatian Armed Forces are a modern, capable and strong armed force |url=https://www.morh.hr/en/anusic-at-handover-of-the-bradley-vehicle-owing-to-excellent-cooperation-with-the-usa-the-croatian-armed-forces-are-a-modern-capable-and-strong-armed-force/ |access-date=2025-01-17 |website=morh |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Provedbeni program Ministarstva obrane Republike Hrvatske 2024. – 2028. |url=https://www.morh.hr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-01-08-provedbeni-program-morh-2024-2028.pdf}}</ref>
* {{flag|Lebanon}}: 32 M2A2<ref name="Delivery of eight M2A2 to Lebanon">{{cite web |title=US Delivers Bradley Fighting Vehicles to the Lebanese Army |url= https://lb.usembassy.gov/us-delivers-bradley-fighting-vehicles-lebanese-army/ |publisher=[[U.S. Embassy in Lebanon]] |date= 14 August 2017 |access-date= 15 August 2018 |quote= We are here at the Port of Beirut to mark the delivery of eight M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicles. These are the very first of a total shipment of 32 Bradleys that will be delivered in the coming months. |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170816021306/https://lb.usembassy.gov/us-delivers-bradley-fighting-vehicles-lebanese-army/ |archive-date=August 16, 2017}}</ref>
* {{Flag|Saudi Arabia}}: 400<ref name="Army Tech"/>
* {{flag|Ukraine}}: 300+ M2A2 ODS & 4 M7 BFISTs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=U.S. Security Cooperation with Ukraine |url=https://www.state.gov/u-s-security-cooperation-with-ukraine/ |access-date=2024-06-29 |website=United States Department of State |language=en}}</ref> As of 16 September 2025, 182 Bradleys had reportedly been destroyed, damaged or captured, while in service with Ukrainian forces.<ref name="oryx1" /> On 24 July 2025, the US approved the $150 million sale package of Bradley infantry fighting vehicle as part of secondary sales package along with Hawk Phase III missile systems.<ref>https://euromaidanpress.com/2025/07/24/us-approves-sale-of-two-military-aid-packages-to-ukraine-worth-322-mn/</ref><ref>https://kyivindependent.com/us-approves-possible-172-million-support-package-for-ukraines-air-defense-system/</ref> 
* {{Flag|United States}}: Roughly 4,500 M2 & M3 variants, plus about 2,000 in storage.<ref>{{cite web |author1=Trevithick |first=Joseph |date=3 February 2020 |title=Thousands of Army Bradleys Don't Have The Power To Use New Active Protection Systems |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/32068/thousands-of-army-bradleys-dont-have-the-power-to-use-new-active-protection-systems |access-date=29 December 2022 |website=The drive |publisher=}}</ref> As of January 2025, there are an estimated 1,200 M3A2/A3 (800 more M3 Bradley in storage), 2,000 M2A2/A3, 285 M2A4, 300 M7A3/SA BFIST (OP), and 35 M7A4 BFIST (OP) (2000 more M2 Bradleys in storage).<ref name="Military Balance 2025">{{cite book |title=The Military Balance |date=2025 |publisher=[[International Institute for Strategic Studies]] |isbn=978-1-041-04967-8}}</ref>{{rp|36}} On 24 July 2025, the US approved the $150 million secondary sale package of Bradley vehicles and related equipment.<ref>https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/us-approves-sale-two-military-195802462.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall</ref>

===Potential operators===
* {{flag|Greece}}<ref>{{cite web |title=Κοσμογονία στον Ελληνικό Στρατό: Ερχονται ελικόπτερα OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, ΤΟΜΑ M2 Bradley & Hellfire AGM-114L! |url=http://www.pronews.gr/amyna-asfaleia/hersaies-dynameis/611190_kosmogonia-ston-elliniko-strato-erhontai-elikoptera-oh-58d |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703151914/http://www.pronews.gr/amyna-asfaleia/hersaies-dynameis/611190_kosmogonia-ston-elliniko-strato-erhontai-elikoptera-oh-58d |archive-date=2017-07-03 |access-date=2017-07-03 |work=Pro news |language=Greek}}</ref>
* {{PRT}}: The [[Portuguese Army]] is looking for a new [[infantry fighting vehicle]] to replace its [[M113 armored personnel carrier|M113]] fleet.<ref>{{Cite web |title=PEO GCS / ACC-DTA: Current and Future Requirements |url=https://mdex-ndia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/PEO-GCS-ACC-DTA-Current-and-Future-Requirements-08-APR2025.pdf}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[List of modern armoured fighting vehicles]]
* [[Mechanized infantry]]

{{Div col|colwidth=25em}}
* {{lwc|Assault Amphibious Vehicle}}
* {{lwc|BMD-4}}
* {{lwc|BTR-T}}
* {{lwc|Combat Vehicle 90}}
* {{lwc|Makran IFV}}
* {{lwc|Marder (infantry fighting vehicle)|Marder}}
* {{lwc|Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle}}
* {{lwc|Puma (German infantry fighting vehicle)|Puma}}
* {{lwc|Otokar Tulpar|Tulpar}}
* {{lwc|T-15 Armata}}
* {{lwc|VPK-7829 Bumerang}}
* {{lwc|Warrior IFV}}
* {{lwc|ZBD-04}}
* {{lwc|ZBD-05}}
{{Div col end}}

== Notes ==
=== Explanatory footnotes ===
{{notelist}}

=== Citations ===
{{reflist|refs=
<!-- <ref name="oryxspioenkop.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.oryxspioenkop.com/2022/02/attack-on-europe-documenting-ukrainian.html |title=Attack on Europe: Documenting Ukrainian Equipment Losses During the Russian Invasion of Ukraine}}</ref> -->
}}

== General and cited sources ==
* {{cite book |last= Haworth |first= W. Blair |title= The Bradley and How It Got That Way: Technology, Institutions, and the Problem of Mechanized Infantry in the United States Army |publisher= Greenwood Press |year= 1999 |location= Westport, Conn. |isbn= 0-313-30974-4 |url=https://archive.org/details/bradleyhowitgott0000hawo/}}
* {{cite book |last1=Hunnicutt |first1=Richard Pearce |author1-link= R. P. Hunnicutt |title=Bradley: A History of American Fighting and Support Vehicles |date=15 September 2015 |orig-date=1999 |publisher=Echo Point Books & Media |location=Battleboro, VT |isbn=978-1-62654-153-5}}
* {{cite book |last1=Zaloga |first1=Steven J. |author1-link=Steven Zaloga |title=M2/M3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle 1983–1995 |date=1995 |publisher=Reed International Books |location=London |isbn=1-85532-538-1}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book |last=Halberstadt |first=Hans |year=2001 |title=Bradley Company |series=Europa Militaria No. 30 |location=Marlborough, Wiltshire, UK |publisher=The Crowood Press |isbn=1-86126-425-9}}

==External links==
{{Commons|Bradley IFV}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20060602041355/http://www.pogo.org/m/dp/dp-2003-Bradley.pdf Bradley Fighting Vehicle Systems Upgrade to A3]

{{Modern AFV}}

[[Category:Armored fighting vehicles of the United States]]
[[Category:BAE Systems land vehicles]]
[[Category:Cold War armored fighting vehicles of the United States]]
[[Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1980s]]
[[Category:Tracked amphibious vehicles]]
[[Category:Tracked armoured fighting vehicles|M002]]
[[Category:Tracked reconnaissance vehicles]]