The vehicle fleet of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: Ranging from motorcycles and buggies to heavy assault armored vehicles

Throughout the russian-Ukrainian war, the vehicle fleet of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has significantly expanded, not only in quantity but also in capabilities. Our military units have been reinforced with numerous new vehicle models, some of which possess unique operational features. The current vehicle fleet of the Armed Forces of Ukraine includes a wide range—from motorcycles and buggies to heavily armed and armored MRAP-class vehicles. 

According to the Main Directorate for the Lifecycle Support of Weapons and Military Equipment, nearly 300 models of automotive equipment—across various categories, types, and functions—have been adopted for the Defence Forces over the past three years of war. 

For many years, the fleet of light military vehicles was limited to a few multipurpose models with similar characteristics, such as the UAZ-469 and UAZ-452. There were, of course, other models—various LuAZ and GAZ modifications—but they were not widely used. Over time, their numbers dwindled, and the requirements for such vehicles changed rapidly.

After 2014, the military needed affordable off-road vehicles to cover most of the everyday needs of frontline units. Used civilian off-road vehicles—often dubbed ‘volunteer jeeps’—were brought in to expand the military’s fleet. Over time, the state began procuring new pickup trucks. At the same time, there was a growing need for off-road vehicles with larger cargo areas—capable of carrying more supplies or mounting weapon systems. 

The current light vehicle fleet of the Defence Forces consists of various models, classified by size, type, class, and subtype. The smallest are ultralight tactical buggies, while the largest feature ballistic protection and significant firepower.

Early military tactical vehicles were characterized by a few key specifications: size, weight, top speed, capacity, and payload. Modern military tactical vehicles feature dozens of characteristics, with the following key ones added: ballistic protection, resistance to shrapnel from artillery shells, mine blast resilience, armament integration, additional equipment, camouflage features, dynamic performance, and off-road capabilities. 

This wide range of vehicles allows for selecting the optimal transport for specific military tasks. 

Military motorcycles, such as the noiseless Ukrainian-made Atom Military electric motorcycle, are highly effective for performing various tasks in challenging conditions. These vehicles can traverse dense forests, narrow trails, and rough terrain, avoid obstacles, and scale rocky slopes. Gasoline-powered ATVs and hexacycles offer similar, yet slightly broader capabilities. They are capable of carrying small loads and evacuating the wounded.  

Light, low-profile buggies like the Ukrainian VARAN are well-suited for reconnaissance and supporting assault operations. Most enemy FPV drones cannot catch up with this buggy.

High-mobility military pickups perform most logistical and transport tasks within the Defence Forces. They also function as mobile platforms for a range of infantry weapon systems. 

Light tactical armored vehicles, such as the Ukrainian TYSA or DJURA, can execute the same tasks as pickups but in higher-risk zones due to their ballistic protection. These vehicles are suitable for reconnaissance, patrolling, and providing fire support. 

Medium tactical armored vehicles, such as the Oncilla-Shturm, KrAZ Cougar, and Dozor, provide even more expanded capabilities and even more enhanced protection, particularly against mines and artillery shrapnel.

Heavy tactical vehicles, such as the domestically produced Kozak-2, Kozak-5, Novator-2, KrAZ Spartan, Varta, and INGUAR, can conduct assault operations. The Defence Forces of Ukraine also operate many foreign armored vehicles in this category. Many of these vehicles are even classified as armored personnel carriers (APCs).

MRAP-class armored vehicles, such as the MaxxPro, Casspir, Oshkosh, Husky, Wolfhound, Mastiff, and Bushmaster, offer reliable protection not only against small arms fire and shrapnel but also against powerful mines.