The BTR in Arma Reforger isn’t just a heavy vehicle—it’s a fully realized Cold War-era machine, and it’s as fun to operate as it is powerful. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to drive the BTR, manage it in combat, and make the most of its mobility, armor, and immersive first-person experience.
1. Entering and Starting the BTR
To enter the BTR:
- Use the door located between the wheels on either side
Inside, you’ll find two critical dashboard gauges:
- Speedometer (right side): Kilometers per hour
- Fuel Gauge (left side): Labeled in Cyrillic (ТOПЛИВО – fuel)
To start the engine, press and hold the engine start switch.
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2. Visibility and Driving at Night
Currently, periscope mirrors are non-functional, so your only viewing method is to open the hatch. The armored glass in front can absorb a few hits before breaking.
For night driving:
- Activate dashboard lights and external lights for authentic low-light realism
- The lighting replicates forest driving conditions realistically, offering immersive visibility
3. Driving the BTR: Power and Mobility
Despite weighing 10.8 tons, the BTR is surprisingly mobile:
- Similar top speeds to lighter vehicles
- Great off-road suspension and balance
- Use Shift to accelerate faster
The BTR handles well but requires care—don’t slam into obstacles or rush steep inclines.
4. Off-Road and Amphibious Performance
Off-road, the BTR excels in suspension and terrain adaptability. For smoother control:
- Use 2nd or 3rd gear to avoid excessive start-stop jerks
The BTR is also amphibious:
- Swims at around 10 km/h in water
- You can engage any gear while in water
Though Arma maps lack rivers, you can use it to cross coastal channels, such as from Caktus to the lighthouse (~400m, ~4 minutes).
5. What to Do If the Engine Catches Fire
- Exit the vehicle immediately
- Equip the wrench stored in the BTR
- Approach the hatch from a safe distance
- Use the wrench to extinguish the fire
Always act quickly to avoid losing the vehicle or getting caught in an explosion.
6. Coordinating With Your Gunner
Because the commander seat is currently non-functional, the driver often acts as the commander too. Your role is to:
- Position the BTR so the gunner has good line-of-sight
- Remain still while they aim—movement disrupts accuracy due to the lack of stabilized weapon systems
Avoid repositioning constantly. Stay still for 5–10 minutes if needed to ensure the gunner can operate effectively.
7. First-Person Driving and Immersion
The BTR interior is fully modeled, unlike many other games where vehicles are just static boxes.
- Use the first-person view as much as possible for maximum immersion
- External view is only recommended when visibility is essential (e.g., navigating rough terrain or spotting enemies)
The developers nailed immersive details:
- Sound varies by terrain (grass, dirt, gravel)
- Light filters through hatches naturally
- Acceleration “feels” weighty from inside
8. Makeshift Commanding From the Hatch
Until proper commander optics are implemented, use a workaround:
- Open the hatch, pull out binoculars, and act as a spotter
- Call out enemy positions to the gunner while maintaining situational awareness
This keeps the vehicle in action even when you can’t rotate with a dedicated optic.
Final Thoughts
Driving the BTR in Arma Reforger is more than pressing W—it’s about weight, coordination, and tactical patience. When used correctly, this vehicle is a mobile fortress, ideal for troop transport and fire support. Stay calm, keep your gunner happy, and always drive with purpose.
If you’re crossing forests at night, dodging enemy fire, or just cruising through the misty backroads of Everon, the BTR is an unforgettable ride. Stay first-person. Stay immersive. And enjoy the beauty of Cold War armor in motion.




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