Wars often bring surprising glimpses of history, especially in the military equipment deployed on battlefields.
In Ukraine, where modern technology meets older hardware, rare Yugoslavian BOV armored vehicles have made an appearance, showcasing the range of tools used in its ongoing defense.
Images of these vehicles recently emerged online, shared by The Washington Post, providing a visual insight into the challenges Ukrainian forces face in their fight against Russia.
Added Mesh Armor
Analysts from Defense Express noted that these photos reflect the resourcefulness required of Ukraine’s defenders, who are often equipped with aging machinery alongside advanced weaponry.
The BOV armored personnel carrier (APC), originally built in Yugoslavia, has a storied past, according to WP.
It runs on a Deutz F6L413 engine with just under 150 horsepower, reaching speeds of up to 95 km/h.
It accommodates ten individuals, including two crew members, and is armed with a 7.62mm PKT machine gun and smoke grenade launchers.
Although production ceased decades ago, these vehicles continue to serve as functional tools for military operations.
Ukraine has adapted the BOV vehicles it has received by adding mesh armor to protect against kamikaze drones, a growing threat from Russian forces.
These upgrades are intended to provide additional defense, but the original design of the BOV offers limited safety for those inside, leaving crews exposed to modern weaponry.
Reports indicate that Slovenia quietly supplied some of these vehicles to Ukraine, though it remains unclear whether the ones photographed in eastern Ukraine were part of this specific shipment.
Despite their age, the appearance of these armored carriers demonstrates how Ukraine is creatively repurposing older equipment to meet its current military needs.
