The Armed Forces of Belarus have taken a significant step forward in military modernization by officially adopting the Volat V2 armored personnel carrier (APC), the first such vehicle to be developed domestically. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on Russian military technology.
Manufactured by the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT), the Volat V2 is an 8×8 wheeled APC designed not only for troop transport but also for providing essential fire support during amphibious operations and special missions. As the Belarusian military seeks to modernize its fleet, the Volat V2 will replace older Soviet-era vehicles, including models such as the BTR-70, BTR-80, BMP-1, and BMP-2.
Recently, the Volat V2 successfully completed state trials and is currently being showcased at the MILEX-2025 international defense exhibition in Minsk, taking place from May 21 to 24.
Weighing in at 24,500 kilograms (54,013 pounds), the Volat V2 is engineered with enhanced capabilities in firepower, survivability, and mobility. The APC features a remote-controlled combat module named Adunok-CM30.2, which includes a 30mm automatic cannon, a coaxial 7.62mm PKT machine gun, four Konkurs anti-tank guided missiles, and six smoke grenades.
Designed to accommodate a three-person crew along with space for eight soldiers, the vehicle is specifically built to withstand small arms fire as well as blasts from anti-tank mines and improvised explosive devices. In addition, it is equipped with an automatic fire extinguisher system, smoke exhaust for concealment, a filter ventilation unit, drainage systems, video observation capabilities, and a self-recovery winch—all aimed at enhancing crew safety and operational effectiveness in varied environments.
The Volat V2 also boasts an independent hydropneumatic suspension and automatic transmission, powered by a robust 550-horsepower engine. This allows it to achieve a top speed of 110 kilometers per hour (68 miles per hour) on roads and 10 kilometers per hour (6.2 miles per hour) in water.
The adoption of the Volat V2 represents a vital milestone for Belarusian defense capabilities, reflecting an ongoing effort to develop indigenous military assets and reduce reliance on foreign systems amid evolving regional security dynamics.
