Spanish automobile manufacturer Tecnove has announced a significant contract to produce armored combat vehicles in partnership with the Ukrainian firm Practika. This collaboration will be centered at Tecnove’s facility in Herencia, located in central Spain, and aims to support Practika’s efforts to expand its offerings to international markets.
The agreement specifically encompasses the assembly of Practika’s proprietary Kozak and Djura armored vehicles, both of which have been successfully integrated into the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The vehicles will be produced in several configurations, including personnel carriers, armored ambulances, and options tailored for special forces operations.
In a statement, Tecnove emphasized that this partnership brings together their combined expertise and technological advancements to manufacture high-performance armored vehicles suited for a range of missions. The vehicles will feature state-of-the-art armor and mobility technologies, making them available to a global audience through production in Spain.
The Kozak model, a standout in this lineup, measures approximately 6 meters (20 feet) in length and can carry up to 10 personnel. It is powered by a 330-horsepower diesel engine and is built with NATO-standard armor designed to withstand ballistic attacks and blasts. The vehicle operates effectively with a range of approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles) and can achieve a maximum speed of 150 kilometers (93 miles) per hour.
In contrast, the Djura system is a 4×4 vehicle measuring 5.4 meters (18 feet) that accommodates up to six troops. It features a 220-horsepower diesel engine and is protected by NATO-standard armor against grenades. The Djura boasts an impressive operational range of 1,300 kilometers (2,092 miles) and a top speed of 120 kilometers (75 miles) per hour.
These armored vehicles play a crucial role in the modernization and strengthening of Ukraine’s military capabilities. In 2021, the Ukrainian Armed Forces received around 44 second-generation Kozak vehicles, bolstering their mine-resistant capabilities just before the onset of Russia’s extensive military offensive. Furthermore, the Djura system was approved for medical evacuation tasks last April, following its introduction in 2024, significantly enhancing the options available for transporting wounded soldiers from conflict zones.
This partnership not only signifies a strategic move for Tecnove and Practika but also reflects the ongoing support for Ukraine’s defense industry amid challenging geopolitical circumstances.