Ukrainian Armor Masters Production of Running Gear Components for Novator-2 Armored Vehicle

Ukrainian Armor has mastered the production of some running gear components for the Novator-2 armored vehicle: control arms, rods, bump stops and bushings.

Ukrainian Armor told Militarnyi about this.

The vehicle is based on a Ford F-550 chassis that is additionally reinforced: the company strengthens the frame and axles and installs reinforced shock absorbers and stabilizers.

At the same time, the company develops and manufactures some running gear components itself, namely control arms, rods, bump stops and bushings.

Novator-2

The Novator-2 is a specialized Ukrainian armored vehicle developed based on experience gained from the combat use of the first version of the Novator.

The vehicle is primarily designed to transport a combat unit. It can carry 10 service members — a driver and nine troops. Compared with its predecessor, the armored vehicle features reinforced front and rear suspension, an improved steering system, enhanced mine protection and an enlarged armored compartment.

The first prototype was unveiled in September 2023 at the MSPO international defense exhibition in Poland. In January 2024, the vehicle’s tests were publicly shown. The National Guard of Ukraine received the first production batch in early July 2024.

The vehicle is equipped with a 6.7-liter eight-cylinder diesel engine producing 300 hp, as well as an automatic transmission.

The vehicle has a curb weight of about 9,660 kilograms and a payload capacity of up to 3,340 kilograms. It is equipped with run-flat tires, allowing it to continue moving after the tires are damaged.

The armored hull provides ballistic protection at STANAG 4569 Level 1, which provides protection against 7.62×51 mm NATO Ball M80 rounds at a distance of 30 meters.

Mine protection meets STANAG 4569 Level 2a/2b. The vehicle is designed to protect the crew if a charge equivalent to up to 6 kilograms of TNT detonates either under a wheel or beneath the hull. Special mine-resistant seats with five-point safety harnesses are also installed to reduce the impact of the blast on the crew.

Based on the standard chassis, Ukrainian Armor has developed several specialized armored vehicles: the Novator-2S armored ambulance, the Novator C2V, and the Novator-2 Krechet for coordinating air defense units and assets.