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Ukrainian Army Receives New Locally-Made Novator-2 Armored Vehicles with Enhanced Drone Countermeasures.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces recently received a new batch of domestically produced Novator-2 armored personnel carriers, designed to enhance protection and mobility for units deployed on the frontline. This development was shared by the 12th Special Operations Brigade "Azov" of the Ukrainian National Guard through an update on Telegram. The deployment of these locally manufactured vehicles strengthens Ukrainian forces’ capabilities, particularly in defense against drone attacks and artillery fire, while also improving their effectiveness in security and evacuation missions.
A batch of Novator-2 armored vehicles fitted with electronic warfare systems was delivered in August 2024 (Picture source: Ukrainian Army)
Developed by the Ukrainian company Ukrarmor, the Novator-2 was designed based on feedback from troops and tailored to meet the specific needs of the National Guard. It features enhancements to withstand high-intensity environments, incorporating several technical upgrades from the original model. In July 2024, Ukrarmor delivered the first series of Novator-2 vehicles equipped with electronic warfare systems. A month later, an additional batch was allocated to units stationed near Kursk in Russia, showcasing Ukrarmor's ability to meet urgent military requirements.
The Novator-2 stands out for its robust design and high transport capacity. Measuring 7 meters in length, it can carry up to 10 personnel and haul up to 1,845 kilograms of cargo. Built on the Ford F-550 chassis, the vehicle includes bulletproof glass, a waterproof and electric winch, run-flat tires, and internal lighting configurations suitable for night and camouflage operations. Its 7-liter Ford V8 Super diesel engine, generating 300 horsepower, is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, enabling the Novator-2 to reach a top speed of 140 km/h with an operational range of 500 kilometers.
On the field, the Novator-2 plays a crucial role in security and evacuation missions, particularly for extracting personnel from artillery and drone strike zones. In recent operations, it has proven especially effective for National Guard brigades, providing mobile protection against unexpected mine explosions and enemy drone attacks. An additional key feature is its contribution to counter-drone operations, thanks to its integrated electronic warfare systems, offering an active defense against modern aerial threats.
The Novator-2's armor has been tested in combat conditions. The Azov Brigade reported an incident where the vehicle withstood a nearby explosion, enabling it to continue its mission with minimal damage. When necessary, the vehicle can also be outfitted with a remote-controlled combat module armed with a machine gun, further enhancing its defensive capabilities in high-intensity conflict zones.
The Novator-2 also integrates significant structural modifications. Compared to its predecessor, it benefits from an improved suspension and steering system, offering enhanced maneuverability and off-road performance. Its length was increased by 10 centimeters to accommodate additional armored seating, raising the capacity from five to ten passengers. The vehicle’s curb weight increased by two tons, now reaching 9,660 kg, while the payload capacity was extended to 3,340 kg. Additional 5-centimeter-thick armored windows and an extra roof hatch further strengthen crew protection.
These new improvements position the Novator-2 as a strategic tool for Ukraine's military missions, where mobility and protection are critical. Feedback from frontline National Guard units will be vital in refining and adapting this model to the evolving realities of modern battlefields. By continuously adapting its vehicles based on combat feedback, Ukrarmor demonstrates its capability to address the demands of electronic warfare and ground operations effectively.