A light tactical vehicle known as the Flyer 72-LD, developed by Flyer Defense for the US military’s Ultra Light Combat Vehicle program, has recently been spotted in use by Ukrainian armed forces. This vehicle, known for its capabilities in irregular warfare and covert operations, was seen in an official video released by Ukraine’s 6th Ranger Regiment.
The Flyer 72-LD was notably absent from any official aid packages mentioned in relation to Ukraine, leading several media outlets to speculate that its appearance is part of a classified equipment transfer from the United States. This supposition is particularly intriguing given that the vehicle is not widely utilized among NATO forces, raising questions about the dynamics of military support and intelligence sharing.
While the exact number of Flyer 72-LD vehicles in service with Ukrainian forces remains undisclosed, the vehicle itself possesses impressive specifications. With a length of 194 inches (4.9 meters) and a width of 72 inches (1.8 meters), it features an adjustable height and can transport around 20 personnel. Depending on its configuration, it is also capable of carrying stretchers for wounded soldiers. The vehicle weighs approximately 5,000 pounds (2,267 kilograms) and can manage a payload equal to its own weight. It is designed to be transportable by a range of military helicopters, including the UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, CH-53 Sea Stallion, and even the Soviet-era Mi-8 helicopter, which is currently part of Ukraine’s resupply operations in the ongoing conflict with Russia. This versatility does, however, necessitate specialized training for effective operation.
The lightweight construction of the Flyer 72-LD allows it to navigate rugged terrains at speeds up to 75 miles (120 kilometers) per hour, facilitating rapid deployment scenarios. Observers note that this kind of vehicle is ideally suited for the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of battlefield conditions that Ukrainian forces currently face.
This recent development adds to a pattern of the United States discreetly supplying military equipment to Ukraine. For instance, the transfer of long-range ATACMS to Kyiv was initially kept under wraps until it was publicly confirmed by US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel in April 2024. Additionally, Shield AI covertly sent a small batch of V-BAT drones for testing in Ukraine, which were subsequently reported to be operational within the country’s Unmanned Systems Forces by early 2025.
Overall, the appearance of the Flyer 72-LD in Ukraine highlights an evolving landscape of military support and strategic partnerships as the region continues to grapple with ongoing conflicts.
