The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine released a compelling video on April 18, showcasing the latest addition to their military arsenal: the upgraded Mbombe 6 6×6 Armoured fighting vehicles, now equipped with a Ukrainian remotely operated weapon system (ROWS). Amidst heightened tensions in the region, the unveiling of this formidable asset underscores Ukraine’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, took center stage in the video as he inspected the array of armored vehicles, including the Mbombe, at a location kept undisclosed for security reasons. The Mbombe 6 featured in the footage boasts the integration of a Spys (Spear) remotely operated weapon system (ROWS) developed by Ukraine-based company Techimpex.
Equipped with a potent arsenal, the Spys ROWS boasts a 30mm ZTM-1 autocannon, providing substantial firepower against both armored and soft targets. Complementing this is a 30mm KBA-117 automatic grenade launcher, offering enhanced suppressive capabilities in combat situations. Additionally, the turret is armed with four laser-beam-guided, 130mm anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), enabling precise and devastating strikes against enemy armor. Furthermore, the Spis turret features a 7.62mm PKT machine gun and smoke grenades, augmenting its defensive capabilities and providing additional cover for friendly forces. With an ample ammunition load, including 300 autocannon shells, 116 grenade launcher rounds, and 2,100 machine gun cartridges, along with smoke grenade launchers, the Spis turret ensures sustained firepower, crucial for prolonged engagements.
The Mbombe 6 is a mine-protected, high-mobility armoured fighting vehicle produced by Paramount Group from South Africa that was launched in 2010. “Mbombe” is named after an African warrior. The Mbombe 6 hull meets STANAG 4569 Level 4, which means the vehicle can withstand a 10 kg TNT blast under its hull or any wheel station. As standard, the Mbombe 6 can protect its crew against Rocket-propelled grenades, while additional modules protect against IEDs, up to 50 kg TNT at 5 metres. The Mbombe 6’s unladen weight is 16 tonnes. Its maximum combat weight is 27 tonnes with a crew of 11. It has 6×6 wheel drive for use on different kinds of terrain. Its maximum speed is 100 km/h; its range is 700 km. The Mbombe 6 has a 300 kW Cummins ISBe4 diesel engine and an Allison 6 speed automatic transmission.
