The Ukrainian defense industry is set to elevate its armored vehicle lineup with the introduction of the Varta-2 armored car. Developed by Ukrainian Armored Vehicles, the Varta-2 incorporates lessons learned from combat operations in Ukraine and features cutting-edge electronic warfare systems not present in previously supplied equipment.
Development and Production Timeline
General Director Vladyslav Belbas revealed in an exclusive interview with Focus that the Varta-2 has undergone extensive testing over the past two months. Following the testing phase, the vehicle will undergo codification before commencing serial production in 2025. The rapid development timeline, culminating in the presentation of the Varta-2 at the International Defense Industry Exhibition MSPO 2024 in Kielce, Poland, underscores Ukraine's commitment to swiftly enhancing its military hardware.
Enhanced Features and Capabilities
Electronic Warfare Systems: The Varta-2 is uniquely equipped with electronic warfare systems, a feature absent in any other equipment currently supplied to Ukraine. This enhancement provides the vehicle with advanced defensive and offensive electronic capabilities.
Modern Chassis Design: Belbas emphasized that the Varta-2 was developed on a modern chassis tailored to meet Ukraine's specific technical requirements. The chassis design eliminates the traditional frame, allowing suspension parts and elements to attach directly to the body, thereby simplifying construction and maintenance.
Lightweight and Enhanced Protection: Weighing 3 tons less than its predecessor, the Varta-2 offers a STANAG 3a/3b mine protection level. This level of protection safeguards against close-range fire from armor-piercing 7.62x51 caliber cartridges and detonations from 8 kg of TNT.
Increased Mobility: Responding to the demands of modern combat, the Varta-2 boasts a top speed of 110 km/h, ensuring rapid deployment and maneuverability on the battlefield.
Combat Readiness and Strategic Importance
Belbas highlighted the critical importance of speed and electronic warfare in contemporary warfare, particularly in countering threats posed by FPV drones. He stated:
"It does not matter how protected you are, if the enemy has FPV drones that destroy even Abrams. Our car develops a speed of 110 km per hour. We immediately developed a car with the installation of electronic warfare systems, which, in principle, no one has at the moment from the equipment supplied to Ukraine."
This statement underscores the Varta-2's role in enhancing Ukraine's defensive and offensive operations, providing a strategic edge in mitigating drone threats and improving overall battlefield effectiveness.
Historical Context and Evolution
Prior to 2020, the original Varta armored car was primarily supplied to Ukrainian law enforcement agencies. The transition to the Varta-2 model signifies a shift towards meeting the evolving demands of military operations, incorporating real-world combat feedback into vehicle design and functionality.
Future Prospects
With serial production slated for 2025, the Varta-2 is expected to become a cornerstone of Ukraine's armored vehicle fleet. The integration of electronic warfare systems and improved mobility positions the Varta-2 as a formidable asset in Ukraine's defense strategy, capable of addressing both current and emerging threats on the battlefield.
Conclusion
The development of the Varta-2 armored car represents a significant milestone for Ukraine's defense industry. By leveraging combat experience and incorporating advanced technologies, Ukrainian Armored Vehicles is poised to deliver a highly capable and resilient armored vehicle that meets the stringent demands of modern warfare. As serial production approaches, the Varta-2 is set to play a crucial role in Ukraine's ongoing efforts to safeguard its sovereignty and enhance its military prowess.
