What is with the new Russian Heavy IFV?

Note:  Gabriel over at UK Commentary beat me to the punch and has a great initial analysis of the Armata MBT.  I'll be commenting on his page about a few points that I disagree with him on and you're welcome to join the conversation here.

The new Russian Heavy IFV.

To me that's the real interesting part of the roll out.  We can easily understand the thinking behind the new wheeled IFV.  The tracked vehicle is also understood quite readily and also looks capable.

So what are the Russians thinking with the new Heavy IFV?

I believe we're about to see a three tier force.  The wheeled vehicle for their rapid deployment units, the tracked for their medium weight all arounders and then for the Russian style shock and awe...hey diddle diddle straight up the middle assaults...that's what the heavy IFV will do.

I think that points to relatively small numbers for what we would consider enhanced Heavy Armored Brigades.  I also believe that this vehicle is born of the city fight in Chechnya and is probably the Russian equivalent of the US Army's desire to field the Ground Combat Vehicle.  Why do I say this?  Have you noticed that the new Russian unmanned IFV turrets have unmatched gun elevation?  That's something guys that have fought in cities would demand!

The Russians have the building blocks for a formidable armored force.

But what should concern US planners is this.

While the US Army is playing with ATV's as airborne mobility vehicles, the Russians are about to give their airborne forces the equivalent (and probably better) of the Stryker.  While the USMC is toying with Company Landing Teams and relying on the F-35 to provide support to those far flung units, the Russian Marines will be deploying with new tracked and wheeled IFVs.

Russia is matching our doctrine and beating us while we're still on the drawing board.