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Ukraine Deploys New Ukrainian-Made “Varta-2” Armored Vehicle With 30mm Firepower
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![Ivan_khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
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The Ukrainian-made “Varta-2” armored vehicle has been officially approved for deployment by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Developed by the company Ukrainian Armor, the vehicle offers both enhanced crew protection and, if required, significant firepower support on the battlefield.
According to Defense Express on June 10, the “Varta-2” was designed based on feedback from active military operations and prior field use of earlier vehicles produced by the company.
The armored vehicle features ballistic protection that meets Ukraine’s PZSA-6 standard, shielding against 7.62×54 mm B32 armor-piercing incendiary rounds at close range. In Western terms, this aligns with protection level STANAG 4569 3a/3b.
“Varta-2” offers a higher level of protection than previous domestic models, including the earlier “Varta” (PZSA-5) and the “Novator” (PZSA-4). Classified as an MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle, it includes mine protection features capable of withstanding blasts equivalent to 8 kg of TNT.
The vehicle is also equipped with mine-resistant seats, a suspended floor, and other safety components typical of the MRAP category. Options for electronic warfare systems to counter drones are also available.
The vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, allowing for one-handed operation in emergency scenarios, and includes a modern braking system, GPS navigation, firefighting, air filtration, and camouflage systems for chemical and biological threat protection.
Built on the Base chassis and powered by a 6.7-liter 360 hp turbo diesel engine, the “Varta-2” reaches speeds of up to 110 km/h despite its 14-ton weight.
Unlike the original “Varta,” which used a Belarusian MAZ chassis, the new model relies on a Turkish platform, ensuring uninterrupted component supply. However, the reliance on foreign parts introduces certain logistical considerations.
The Ministry of Defense notes that the “Varta-2” is expected to be available in three variants: a standard version, one with an armored turret for a 12.7 mm machine gun, and another equipped with a remotely operated weapon station.
The latter may support weaponry up to a 30 mm autocannon—an uncommon feature among Ukrainian-made armored vehicles. Comparable systems abroad include the Turkish AKREP II and the Russian Typhoon-VDV, typically used for air defense or specialized operations.
While the addition of a 30 mm cannon increases vehicle weight and may affect mobility, the Ministry’s reference suggests that Ukrainian Armor’s solution performed successfully during trials. The vehicle is now ready for serial production, with early deployment potentially expected in units of the National Guard.
It remains unclear which configuration will be procured. Some promotional materials show the “Varta-2” outfitted with the “Sich” 30 mm remote weapon system, while other potential options include the Wolf 25 AD turret, designed for counter-drone operations.
Overall, the “Varta-2” provides Ukraine’s defense forces with a tactical platform that combines high-level protection with the option for advanced weaponry. Although the vehicle relies on imported components, its design reflects current production realities and combat requirements.
Earlier, the Ukrainian-made Inguar-3 armored vehicle successfully passed combat testing with frontline units, including the 12th Azov Brigade, and proved its effectiveness in both forested and swampy terrain. The vehicle has since been upgraded with electronic warfare systems, anti-drone mesh options, and camera-based visibility, and is now set for deployment in 2025.
