The Ukrainian Armed Forces (ZSU) are set to receive the Buffalo MPV, an armored vehicle renowned for its superior security features. The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has officially approved the addition of these vehicles, which are considered among the most secure armored vehicles on the planet.
Originally developed for the U.S. Army, the Buffalo MPV is classified as an MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle, designed to protect its crew from mines and ambushes. Its unique design includes a V-shaped hull that disperses blast energy, coupled with shock-absorbing seats to enhance crew safety.
The Buffalo MPV is a fully developed iteration of the original African CASSPIR armored vehicle, which gained widespread use in conflicts across South Africa, Afghanistan, and Iraq. These vehicles have earned a reputation for providing reliable protection to their crews, even under intense shelling and bomb attacks. Remarkably, there have been no recorded fatalities among crew members inside the vehicle during such incidents.
The vehicle's protection level is classified as STANAG 4569 (Level III), which means it can withstand blasts equivalent to 20 kilograms of TNT. The armored capsule is constructed from composite armor and further reinforced with cumulative gratings. Additionally, the windows are equipped with 15-centimeter bulletproof glass. The vehicle also features a 9-meter manipulator with a camera and sensors for detecting external explosive devices.
Currently, Buffalo MPVs are in service with the armed forces of the United States, Canada, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan. While the exact timeline for the deployment of these vehicles within the ZSU has not been specified, their arrival is expected to significantly enhance the protection and operational capabilities of Ukraine's military forces.
