The BTR-22 wheeled armored personnel carrier has previously only been displayed in Russia, and each time it has been displayed, it has received great attention from experts and military personnel from various countries.
The modern Russian armored personnel carrier BTR-22 is heading outside of Russia for the first time, specifically to Saudi Arabia.
The state-owned Rostec Telegram channel reported that the vehicle will be showcased at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia. A video posted on the channel showed the combat vehicle, painted in a desert camouflage pattern, automatically deploying from an Il-76 transport aircraft.
The BTR-22 differs from previous models by moving the engine compartment and transmission to the front of the chassis, while there are doors at the rear to facilitate the entry and exit of personnel.
The vehicle features a 30mm 2A72 automatic cannon with a rate of fire of up to 330 rounds per minute, as well as a 7.62mm PKTM machine gun. The effectiveness of these weapons is enhanced by a targeting system equipped with a thermal imaging channel and a laser rangefinder.
The armored personnel carrier's armor has also been reinforced, including systems for protection against mines and high-explosive projectiles. The vehicle weighs 20,000 kg, can accommodate 11 personnel, and its engine generates 360 horsepower, giving it a top road speed of 85 km/h.
An unmanned turret for the Ballista missile and gun can be mounted on the vehicle, which will also be unveiled at the exhibition.
In addition, the exhibition will unveil the Russian "Atlet" armored vehicle equipped with the "Blanchet-A" automatic artillery fire control system, along with several other new military products.
