BVP-M2 SKCZ is a new program to upgrade armoured BVP-2 infantry fighting vehicle, a local Czech Republic production of Russian-made BMP-2.

Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic provide an upgraded vehicle able to protect the soldiers against new threats of the modern battlefield.

BVP-M2 SKCZ was unveiled at IDET 2013, the Defence Exhibition in Czech Republic.

BVP-M2 SKCZ has been designed and manufactured within a joint project of the following cooperating companies, VOP Trencin, a.s., Slovak Republic, EVPU a.s. Nova Dubnica, Slovak Republic and EXCALIBUR ARMY spol. s r.o., Czech Republic.

This project considers all the up-to-date requirements and conditions of the current development relevant to military as well as technological fields, thus this project represent the world's first complex upgrade of BMP-1&2 that eliminates the weaknesses of the original vehicles. The open architecture concept of this upgrade package allows implementing also other upgrade items as per customers' requirements.

This modernization extends the service life of the BMP-2 by another 20 years.

The upgraded BVP-M2 SKCZ infantry fighting vehicle is the base platform for other variants such as command, reconnaissance, communications, engineer, ambulance etc.

The BVP-M2 SKCZ is fitted with new ballistic protection including inside spall liners which provides a protection Level 2 STANAG 4569. Add-on armour is also available to increase the protection up to level 3 or 4. Slat armour providing protection against RPG-type of threats may be installed too.

The BVP-M2 SKCZ is also protected against mine threats under the track on level 2a and level 1 under the hull of the vehicle.

The internal space of the vehicle is enhanced to be more comfortable and allows a long-term transport for the crew and troops. There is also individual seats which are not fixed to the floor to provide better protection against mine blast.

Standard equipment of the new BVP-M2 SKCZ includes modern fire-fighting system in the engine compartment, fire-suppression system in the crew and troop compartment, independent air heater, air-conditioning, thermal and noise insulation.

The original driving unit is replaced by a new modern powerpack which provides more performance to ensure better maneuverability and dynamic properties of the vehicle despite its higher weight.

The BVP-M2 SKCZ is fitted with a TURRA 30 remotely controlled weapon station (RCWS) armed with a 30 mm cannon, 7.62 mm/12.7 mm coaxial machine gun, anti-tank guided missile system and smoke grenade launchers covering area of 120°. The scale of fire is n x 360° in traverse and from -10° to + 75° in elevation which allows to engage such threats as light and medium armoured vehicles, centres of fire, personnel and low-flying targets.

The major RCWS components are armour-protected against damage. The RCWS biaxial gyroscopic stabilization and enhanced elevation & traverse speed substantially improve the fire efficiency even when driving.

Observation and sighting devices of the commander and gunner are capable of target detecting and aiming at day or night and at reduced visibility. The commander may use an independent panoramic optoelectronic observation system.

The commander's and gunner's stations are located in the front of the combat compartment under the weapon station. Both the commander and gunner may fully operate the RCWS using the support of the fire control system with an integrated BMS (Battle Management System).