Ukrainian Forces Eliminate Russian Assault Bus Used in Kursk Offensive, Video

A Ukrainian drone strike destroyed a Russian assault vehicle — a modified KAvZ-39765 bus — in Kursk region, according to Militarnyi on April 27, citing footage published by Ukrainian volunteer and blogger Serhii Sternenko.

The vehicle was reportedly engaged during a broader operation by Bombus Group pilots, who targeted various Russian military transport assets in the region. While the exact role of the bus in direct assault operations remains unclear, Russian forces have previously been observed using similar civilian vehicles on the battlefield.

Russian media outlets have publicly documented the use of KAvZ-39765 buses for military purposes. In October 2024, for instance, agricultural enterprises in Russia’s Irkutsk region transferred a KAvZ bus to military units participating in operations against Ukraine.

Reports at the time noted that the bus underwent modifications to adapt it for wartime needs.

The KAvZ-39765 model, no longer in production since 2008 following the discontinuation of cab-over buses in Russia, has also been included in broader efforts to restore aging vehicles for military use.

Alongside buses, Russian forces have increasingly deployed other non-military vehicles such as the UAZ “Bukhanka” van, often adapted with field modifications to support frontline operations.

Notably, several vehicles have been equipped with makeshift anti-drone protection systems, commonly referred to as “grills” or “barbecue racks,” although their effectiveness in combat remains limited.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian locomotive for the first time since the start of the full-scale war, targeting a military train transporting equipment and supplies in occupied territory, according to the 152nd Separate Rifle Brigade.

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