Russian Drone Hits Ukrainian Novator-2 4X4 Armored Vehicle Despite Jamming Defense.

In early October 2024, images surfaced on Ukrainian social media showing a damaged Novator-2 4x4 armored vehicle belonging to the 18th Slovyansk Brigade of the Ukrainian National Guard. The vehicle had been struck by a Russian FPV drone near Chasiv Yar in Donetsk Oblast. Despite the damage, the vehicle managed to travel an additional 4 to 5 kilometers before the crew abandoned it.
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Ukrainian Novator-2 4X4 Armored Vehicle was hit by a Russian Drone (Picture source: Ukraine Social Media)

The Novator-2, developed by the Ukrainian company Ukrarmor, represents the evolution of its predecessor, specifically designed to meet the Ukrainian National Guard's requirements. By integrating feedback from troops in the field, this new version offers technical enhancements built to withstand high-intensity environments. In July 2024, Ukrarmor delivered the first series of Novator-2 vehicles equipped with electronic warfare systems. A month later, another batch was deployed to units stationed near the Russian border, demonstrating the company's capability to meet urgent military needs.

At seven meters long, the Novator-2 is designed to transport up to ten personnel and carry up to 1,845 kg of equipment. Built on a Ford F-550 chassis, it features bulletproof glass, a waterproof electric winch, run-flat tires, and interior lighting suited for nighttime and camouflaged operations. Its 7-liter Ford V8 Super diesel engine, producing 300 horsepower, enables it to reach a top speed of 140 km/h with a range of 500 km.

The Novator-2 plays a strategic role in the field, particularly in security and evacuation missions. Its capacity to extract personnel from areas exposed to artillery and drone strikes makes it a vital asset for National Guard brigades. Its integrated electronic warfare system enhances its active defense against drones, providing increased protection against modern aerial threats.

The vehicle is equipped with the AD Kraken Counter FPV F3 system, developed by Kvertus, for defense against FPV drones. This electronic warfare system comes in two versions: the M30, with a power output of 30 watts per channel, and the M50, offering 50 watts per channel. The M30 model, designed to jam FPV drones over three radio bands, has six 30-watt jamming channels. The more powerful M50 model is particularly effective against enemy drone operators at close range or those using repeater control devices. Both versions feature an IP-1 field indicator to detect radio interference and can operate continuously for up to 12 hours, with periodic breaks.

The Novator-2, although equipped with jamming systems like the AD Kraken Counter FPV F3, can be vulnerable to enemy drones for several technical and operational reasons. Jamming systems are designed to detect and interfere with drone control frequencies, but their effectiveness depends on many factors: interference range, jammer power, and the operators' anticipation abilities. In combat, Russian operators may use drones with specific control frequencies or counter-jamming technologies, bypassing the Kraken’s interference capabilities. Additionally, drones equipped with autonomous systems or pre-set GPS paths can sometimes pursue their target even if radio control is partially disrupted.

Furthermore, field deployment conditions play a critical role. Effective electronic jamming requires the Novator-2 to remain stationary or follow specific procedures to maximize protection against aerial threats. When moving quickly, the jammer's coverage can be less effective, leaving the vehicle vulnerable. It is also possible that the attack was designed to overwhelm the vehicle’s jamming capacities by launching multiple drones in succession, reducing the likelihood of neutralizing them all.

The roof of the vehicle can host a rotating platform equipped with a combat module that includes a 12.7 mm machine gun or an automatic grenade launcher. Ukrarmor plans to reinforce the Novator-2’s protection against FPV drones by integrating a dome-shaped electronic warfare system to enhance the units' protection in the field.

The Novator-2 was first showcased in September 2023 at the MSPO exhibition in Poland, marking a significant step in the evolution of Ukrainian armored vehicles. While its weight increased from 7,945 kg to 9,660 kg, its load capacity also significantly increased, reaching 3,340 kg. Adjustments to its suspension system, including reinforced axles and the addition of shock absorbers and air springs, aim to offer improved crew comfort and allow ground clearance adjustments based on load.

The Novator-2’s armor remains as resilient as its predecessor, capable of withstanding 7.62 mm rounds and the simultaneous detonation of two RGD-5 grenades under its V-shaped hull. Additionally, its bulletproof glass has previously demonstrated effectiveness against 12.7 mm machine gun fire in past incidents.

The Novator-2’s robust armor was decisive in safeguarding the crew despite a direct hit from an FPV drone. Designed to withstand high-caliber projectiles and explosions, the vehicle’s advanced armor, combined with its reinforced chassis and bulletproof glass, helped minimize internal damage and protect the occupants effectively. Thanks to this protection, the crew was able to continue driving after the attack, highlighting the Novator-2's capability to operate in extreme combat conditions and providing enhanced security to Ukrainian forces in the field. This model of resilience and security underscores the importance of high-quality armor in protecting troops in conflict zones.