Ukraine has its own frontline legends. One of them is the people’s buggy, “Khishchnik” or "Predator", which has become one of the most successful projects on the front, rivaling even Western analogues, says expert Oleksandr Kovalenko.
According to Kovalenko, the Predator buggies have undergone numerous upgrades, improving not only the vehicle’s specifications but also the production technologies.
“Today, production has shifted exclusively to all-wheel-drive versions. The frame and key components have been reinforced. The weight of a full-drive vehicle is just over one ton,” adds the expert.
Trophy materials and in-house lathes: the secrets of production
Some components for the buggies are made using in-house lathes and trophy materials from Russian equipment that cannot be restored, including ABT-102 aluminum alloy.
The vehicle can easily reach 120 km/h on rough terrain and climb steep slopes. Its 360° rotating turret has almost no blind spots, which is perfect for mobile fire teams, says Kovalenko.
High off-road capability allows missions to be completed even in complex terrain, not just on roads or solid ground.
Logistics under fire: how the buggy saves ammunition and equipment
"The 35th Separate Marine Brigade notes that units using “Khishchnik” minimize personnel losses during operations," adds Kovalenko.
A striking example: when delivering 500 kg of tank ammunition, a L-200 pickup got stuck off-road. The Predator following it, carrying the same weight of ammo, not only overcame the rough terrain but delivered the tank ammunition and helped recover the stuck L-200 and a jeep.
People’s support and volunteer strength
The “Khishchnik” can truly be called a people’s project because its production became possible thanks to volunteer support and regular fundraising for units in urgent need of such vehicles.
Today, the Predator has almost no competitors in Ukraine in terms of price-to-quality ratio, making it a unique and strategically important tool on the front.
