Ukrainian National Guard bolsters defenses with advanced Nowator-2 vehicles

The Ukrainian National Guard has received another batch of Nowator-2 armored vehicles. We explore their capabilities and the enhancements made compared to earlier versions.

The Ukrainian company responsible for their preparation confirmed the delivery of the vehicles in an official statement. This was published on Facebook, with photos and a video dedicated to the Nowator-2 armored vehicles. It was emphasized that these versions are equipped with electronic warfare systems, better mine protection, and improved suspension.

"The National Guard Command tasked us with quickly and effectively equipping our armored vehicles with electronic devices intended to detect and neutralize radio-controlled explosive devices, such as FPV and small ground drones. Together with another domestic creator, we found the best option in terms of cost, quality, and delivery conditions, and then implemented it in our machines," explained the deputy general director of the company Ukrainian Armor, as quoted in the official statement.

FPV drones (first-person view) have become one of the symbols of the war in Ukraine. These are usually small, commercial devices with a built-in camera, to which explosive charges weighing a few pounds are attached. They provide a real-time live view until the moment of impact.

As for the Nowator-2 armored vehicles, it is worth noting that at the beginning of July this year, the Ukrainian National Guard received the first batch of such equipment designed to transport 10 soldiers, including the driver.

Nowator-2 is equipped with a turret that can accommodate a 12.7 mm machine gun. Compared to the first generation, used by the Ukrainian army since 2018, it features better armor, making it 4,400 pounds heavier. The Nowator-2 weighs 21,300 pounds. Now, thanks to the improved suspension, it should provide better maneuverability and comfort in terrain.

"The Novator-2 was developed during the war, taking into account the experience from using the Novator armored vehicle by various army units. The updated version also has improved mine protection and suspension," explained the designers, describing the innovations apart from the electronic warfare systems that they introduced in their equipment.