Mystery of the Mbombe: Ukrainian Forces' New Armored Secret
A video has recently emerged online, capturing numerous vehicles operated by Ukrainian soldiers. Among these, a vehicle strikingly similar to the Mbombe 6x6, produced in Africa, has garnered considerable attention. The origin of these vehicles and how they came into Ukrainian possession remains a mystery. So, what exactly does this enigmatic vehicle offer?
The Mbombe 6x6 is an armored personnel carrier developed by the South African company Paramount. Until now, there has been no indication that these vehicles are being provided to Ukraine. The Defence Express, a website dedicated to military topics, highlights that although the equipment at the front resembles the Mbombe 6x6, it is not identical. This observation has led to speculation that a Ukrainian defense company might have initiated the licensed production of a new armored personnel carrier specifically for the Ukrainian armed forces—a sentiment echoed by journalists from the Militarnyj website.
Vehicle similar to Mbombe 6x6 in Ukraine
The Mbombe 6x6 is currently operated not only by the South African Republic's army but has also seen international adoption. The Paramount Group has secured several export contracts for the vehicle with countries including Jordan, Libya, and Ecuador, as of April 2024.
Specifications released by the company reveal that the vehicle is equipped with a 6x6 drive, enabling it to navigate challenging terrains effectively. Powered by a 457 HP engine, the Mbombe 6x6 can achieve speeds of up to 68 miles per hour on roads and has a range of approximately 435 miles on a single fuel tank.
How will Ukrainians modify vehicles from Africa?
The Mbombe 6x6 boasts a substantial level of ballistic protection—up to level 3 according to the STANAG 4569 standard (protecting against 7.62×51 mm small arms fire), and mine protection up to level 4 of the same standard. This means the vehicle can withstand the blast from up to 22 pounds of TNT beneath its hull and a side blast from up to 110 pounds of TNT from 16 feet away.
The nearly 26-foot-long vehicle can hold up to 11 occupants, including a crew of three (a commander, driver, and gunner). With a combat weight of 25 tons, the vehicle's armament is customizable according to client specifications. The manufacturer states the roof turret can support various weapons, though it is limited to calibers up to 30 mm.
It's uncertain what modifications, if any, have been made to the original Mbombe 6x6 design by the Ukrainians. It is anticipated that any changes will likely focus on the vehicle's armament. Speculation suggests the inclusion of the Spear-Sintez combat module, which boasts a 30 mm automatic cannon, a 30 mm automatic grenade launcher, and a PKT machine gun of 7.62 mm caliber, might be among the adjustments made.
