Ukraine's Special Forces ready to fight Russians with modified Dozor-B APCs
On December 17, 2023, Oleg Syniehubov, Head of the Ukrainian Kharkiv Regional State Administration, reported that the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (GUR) recently received two modified Dozor-B armored personnel carriers. These vehicles have been adapted specifically for GUR's specific needs, focusing on enhancements for operations against Russian troops.
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Key modifications to the Dozor-B include optical sensors, improved protection, and a closed-type machine gun mount, which also includes smoke grenade launchers. (Picture source: Telegram/Oleg Syniehubov)
Key modifications to the Dozor-B include improved protection against mines and small arms fire. Additionally, the vehicles have been equipped with optical sensors on both the front and rear, which are speculated to include thermal and night vision capabilities. This enhancement is expected to aid in reconnaissance operations.
A notable change in the vehicles is the addition of a closed-type machine gun mount, which also includes smoke grenade launchers. It is speculated that these mounts could accommodate 12.7mm machine guns, although this has not been confirmed.
In a departure from earlier Ukrainian and Polish versions of the Dozor-B, the new vehicles feature small modifications such as doors with armored wing wipers. This modification is aimed at maintaining operational efficiency, particularly in varying weather conditions.
The Dozor-B, developed by Ukraine's Kharkiv Morozov Machine Building Design Bureau (KMDB), is a 4x4 light armored personnel carrier. It was first presented in 2007 at the IDEX defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The vehicle, also produced in Poland under the name Oncilla, is available in various configurations for different roles such as anti-tank guide missile (ATGM) carrier, command and control vehicle, and 120mm self-propelled mortar.
The armament options for the Dozor-B include a UAH-40 40mm automatic grenade launcher, Stugna or Barrier 130mm ATGMs, and various types of remote-controlled weapon stations (RCWS), typically equipped with 12.7mm machine guns. Its steel armor is designed to offer protection against 7.62mm B-32 armor-piercing bullets, and the vehicle's floor is reinforced for mine resistance.
Powered by engines such as the Iveco 8142.38.11 or Deutz BF 4M 1013C, the Dozor-B has a power output range between 140 and 197hp. It features a top speed of 100 km/h and a cruising range of 700 km. The vehicle accommodates a crew of three plus six infantrymen, with options for additional equipment like GPS and air conditioning systems.