Djura 4×4 Light Armored Vehicle Approved for Evacuations
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has officially granted approval for the Djura 4×4 light armored vehicle, which will be deployed for medical evacuation missions. Developed by the domestic automotive company Practika, the Djura made its market debut in July 2024. This vehicle is distinguished by its reinforced chassis, featuring enhanced front and rear suspension, improved braking capabilities, and additional protective elements on its exterior. The Ukrainian military has highlighted the vehicle’s ‘optimal’ design, which aligns with their requirements for the safe transport of injured personnel.
Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Valery Churkin emphasized the profound importance of this vehicle in the current conflict, stating, “In a war against an aggressor like Russia, where the enemy violates all conventions and targets medics and their vehicles, evacuating wounded soldiers is often fraught with danger.” Churkin further noted that the effectiveness of such missions is closely tied to the vehicle’s mobility, ballistic protection, and its capacity to withstand attacks from enemy drones, underscoring how critical these attributes are in successfully executing evacuations under challenging conditions.
The Construction and Design of Djura
The Djura is built on the chassis of the Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series and comes in various configurations, including metal body, truck bed, tilt body, and trailer options. The vehicle measures 5.4 meters (18 feet) in length and weighs around 5,000 kilograms (11,023 pounds). It is fortified with Standard 1 NATO armor, offering blast protection against hand grenades, and can comfortably seat up to four personnel. For its use as an ambulance, the vehicle can be adapted to fit up to six individuals and may include features such as an automatic stretcher loading system, specialized air conditioning, and video surveillance equipment.
Under the hood, the Djura is powered by either a 2.8 or a 5.5-liter diesel engine, which delivers up to 220 horsepower. It boasts a maximum speed of 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour) and has an impressive operational range of 1,300 kilometers (2,092 miles). This combination of speed, range, and adaptability makes the Djura a versatile asset for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in their ongoing medical evacuation efforts.
