The fleet of Ukrainian armored vehicles has been expanded with two new MRAP-class additions

The Ministry of Defence has codified and authorized two new Ukrainian-made tactical armored vehicles — the Varta-2 and UAT.GYURZA-02 — for operational use within the Defence Forces of Ukraine. This was announced by Deputy Defence Minister Valerii Churkin.

“Equipping the military with modern armored vehicles remains one of the Ministry of Defence’s top priorities. New armored vehicles must meet strict standards of efficiency and reliability, and above all, ensure a high level of protection for both crew and dismounted personnel. It is important that new weapons and equipment proposed for the military incorporate significant technological potential, particularly in terms of firepower, protection, and functionality,” said Deputy Minister of Defence Valerii Churkin.

The Varta-2 is a modern, specialized MRAP-class (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) armored vehicle developed with consideration of combat experience and the operational needs of the Ukrainian military. 

The vehicle comes in three configurations: a base model, a version equipped with an armored turret for a 12.7 mm machine gun, and a variant featuring a remotely controlled weapon station compatible with 12.7 mm, 14.5 mm, or 30 mm calibers.

The Varta-2 provides a high level of protection. The vehicle’s ballistic protection complies with the PZSA-6 standard, shielding against 7.62×54 mm caliber bullets and B32 armor-piercing incendiary rounds at a distance of 10 meters. The mine protection can withstand a blast equivalent to up to 8 kg of TNT. The interior is equipped with mine-resistant seats, a suspended floor, and additional safety features.

The vehicle is powered by a 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine. It features an automatic transmission, advanced braking system, navigation equipment, fire suppression, camouflage, and air filtration systems for protection against chemical and biological threats.

The second new armored vehicle, the UAT.GYURZA-02, is an upgraded specialized version of the well-known GYURZA-01, which is already in use by our warriors. The new model features enhanced armor protection, improved mobility, and better off-road performance. 

The armored vehicle is equipped with a 6.7-liter turbo diesel engine, automatic transmission, dual-circuit braking system, and more.

The troop compartment provides a high level of protection against 7.62×39 mm and 7.62×54 mm armor-piercing incendiary rounds. The V-shaped hull floor offers protection against mine blasts equivalent to up to 8 kg of TNT. The vehicle can be equipped with any machine gun of up to 14.5 mm caliber.

A reminder to defense equipment manufacturers: helpful information on the procedure for codifying new models of weapons and military equipment is available here.