Ukraine Approves Modernized Khorunzhy Armored Vehicle for Military Deployment Against Russia.

On September 2, 2024, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense approved the delivery of the new Ukrainian armored personnel carrier, named Khorunzhy, to the armed forces. This vehicle is the result of a deep modernization of the Soviet BTR-60, combining significant technical improvements with high-quality materials to meet the current needs of the battlefield.
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The Khorunzhy can be equipped with a combat module featuring either a 14.5 mm machine gun or a 30x113 mm cannon, offering flexibility depending on operational needs. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

The Khorunzhy stands out for its body made of high-quality Finnish steel, a choice that enhances ballistic protection without increasing the vehicle's weight. This body is designed to withstand 7.62 mm steel core bullets around its entire perimeter, while the frontal armor can resist shots from a heavy machine gun at a distance of 10 meters. Additionally, the design of the hull’s bottom, coupled with specially designed anti-mine seats, protects the crew from the devastating effects of explosive devices equivalent to 6 kg of TNT.

In terms of performance, the Khorunzhy significantly surpasses its predecessor, the BTR-60. While the latter was equipped with two 90-horsepower gasoline engines, the new Ukrainian vehicle is powered by a 330-horsepower diesel engine mounted at the front of the hull. This more powerful engine allows the vehicle to reach speeds exceeding 80 km/h, while the increased fuel tank capacity provides a range of over 500 kilometers. The vehicle's hull is made of modern armored steel and offers a level of protection corresponding to STANAG 4569 standards for the upper and side parts of the body.

The vehicle's ergonomics have also been improved, with a body layout that facilitates maneuvering and troop disembarkation, now carried out from the rear of the vehicle, enhancing both safety and the speed of operations in the field.

In terms of equipment, the Khorunzhy is equipped with modern electronics, surveillance cameras for better visibility, an air conditioning system for crew comfort, and an autonomous generator that allows the vehicle to operate even when the engine is turned off.

Regarding armament, the vehicle can be equipped with a combat module featuring either a 14.5 mm machine gun or a 30x113 mm cannon, offering flexibility depending on operational needs.

The Khorunzhy is designed to be versatile, with the capability to be produced in six different variants: linear armored personnel carrier, troop transport, medical evacuation, repair vehicle, command vehicle, and self-propelled mortar. This design flexibility allows the Khorunzhy to meet various military needs, thereby strengthening the operational capacity of the Ukrainian armed forces.

This approval by the Ministry of Defense marks an important step in the modernization of Ukrainian military equipment, with the Khorunzhy positioning itself as a strategic asset on the battlefield.

The new Ukrainian vehicle is powered by a 330-horsepower diesel engine mounted at the front of the hull(Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)