Ukrainian Defense Industry (Ukroboronprom) and RENK America have signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation. It provides for the joint supply of HMPT 800 transmission prototypes to support the development of a new infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). This is stated in the company's official announcement.
This development is very important, given that the Armed Forces of Ukraine currently need additional equipment, especially tracked vehicles.
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The HMPT 500 transmission is used in American M2 Bradley IFVs, M109A7 self-propelled howitzers, AMPVs, M270 multiple launch rocket systems, as well as South Korean K21 IFVs under local license. In other words, this is a proven solution already in service with some Ukrainian military equipment.
The HMPT 800 is the latest iteration of transmissions, offering enhanced performance while maintaining the dimensions and interfaces of the HMPT 500. This standardization enables their use for upgrading and sustaining current defense assets.
This is a notable opportunity, as the prototypes suggest the development of a Ukrainian IFV. This may involve a UkrArmoTech project focused on tracked combat vehicles, or an independent effort by Ukroboronprom.
It should be noted that Ukraine plans to localize the KF41 Lynx IFV from Rheinmetall, which could be the vehicle in question. However, this vehicle uses the RENK HSWL 256, a different transmission family that likely lacks standardization despite sharing the same manufacturer.
As for the characteristics of the HMPT 800, it is designed for armored vehicles weighing up to 45 tons with a maximum engine power of up to 579 kW, or 800 hp. It is slightly inferior to the latest global IFVs, such as the CV90 MK IV, but generally comparable to modern models like the Polish Borsuk.
In other words, Ukraine's defense industry is working on its own infantry fighting vehicle project. It could become an excellent budget alternative to expensive Western models.
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