Ukrainian Armor is set to commence serial production of its VOLS buggy light tactical vehicle, with aspirations of manufacturing several hundred units monthly, contingent on orders from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. CEO Vladyslav Belbas emphasized the vehicle’s strong battlefield demand due to its unique capabilities.
First introduced in 2022, the VOLS buggy has reportedly excelled in real-world scenarios, notably in the Belgorod region, where it successfully evacuated around 200 wounded soldiers amid combat conditions. Developed utilizing the chassis from the Soviet VAZ car, the vehicle has seen multiple design modifications over the past 3.5 years, informed by firsthand combat experience.
The latest version of the VOLS buggy incorporates enhanced features including additional luggage compartments, medical stretchers on both sides, and improved handling. The buggy is designed to accommodate a crew of two and can carry a total payload of up to 500 kilograms, which includes 300 kilograms allocated for cargo in its front and rear compartments. Additionally, it can be equipped with a 12.7mm machine gun to engage enemy positions while on the move.
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the VOLS buggy is its high ground clearance of 38 centimeters, coupled with a low overall height of 1.4 meters, which facilitates rapid movement across challenging terrains. Its lower profile also allows it to remain less detectable on the frontline compared to taller SUVs or pickup trucks, providing enhanced maneuverability over many unmanned ground vehicles.
Powered by a 1.9-liter, 115-horsepower turbodiesel engine, the prototype has a fuel tank capacity of 38 liters, giving it an operational range of approximately 300 kilometers. Belbas noted the aim is to keep the buggy’s cost below $20,000, although final estimates are pending the completion of the codification process.
Belbas explained that the buggies are not intended to replace conventional cargo transport roles but serve combat-specific tasks. On the battlefield, they can carry the wounded, transport ammunition, execute rapid defensive or offensive maneuvers, or conduct swift raids behind enemy lines.
However, the company faces challenges aligning its production plans with the government’s requirements. Belbas voiced concerns regarding bureaucratic inefficiencies that arose when attempting to adapt the buggies to fit increased specifications dictated by the ministry. He stressed that the essential concept should remain focused on the battlefield’s realities and the actual needs of users.
With production geared up and demand high, the VOLS buggy is poised to become a vital asset for the Ukrainian military, designed with a vision to enhance operational effectiveness while remaining cost-effective.
