I posted this in the Soviet Armor forum, but thought I might have better luck here.

I plan to make a diorama showing the Revell BMP-2 coming out of a river or stream. Is the trimvane necessary for amphibious use? If the BMP is crossing a river where it won't be submerged (water about half-way up the hull) is the plate necessary?

Thanks.

Here are some Kazakh BMP-2s crossing water. The trim vane is extended :


HTH

Frenchy

if a vehicle is swimming it will have its trim vane so i guess it depens on how deep the river is. but the trim vane is definately put out prior to entering the water and lowered after swimming. if the commander is unsure of the depth of the water to be crossed the trim vane will be put out as a precaution. hope this helps