Flyer 72-LD: The Covert Vehicle Supporting Ukraine’s Forces
A remarkable addition to the arsenal of Ukraine’s armed forces has been the Flyer 72-LD, a US Army light tactical vehicle that had previously gone unmentioned in any official foreign aid packages. Developed by Flyer Defense for the Ultra Light Combat Vehicle program, this innovative ground vehicle was initially designed for use by US Special Operations Forces. Its presence became public after being featured in an official video released by Ukraine’s 6th Ranger Regiment, prompting widespread speculation about its involvement in a clandestine equipment transfer to Kyiv.
The significance of the Flyer 72-LD lies in its unique design, tailored for irregular warfare and covert operations. Reports from United24 Media indicate that this vehicle is rarely seen among NATO forces, and specific numbers regarding its deployment within the Ukrainian military remains undisclosed. Such secrecy surrounding its operational status raises further questions about the nature of military support being extended to Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Measuring 194 inches (4.9 meters) in length and 72 inches (1.8 meters) in width, the Flyer 72-LD boasts an adjustable height that enhances its versatility. Depending on its configuration, it can accommodate up to 20 personnel, making it suitable for transporting both troops and stretchers for injured soldiers. With a weight of 5,000 pounds (2,267 kilograms) and a rare ability to carry payloads equal to its own weight, the Flyer is compatible with various helicopters including the UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and CH-53 Sea Stallion.
Additionally, the Flyer 72-LD has been reported to be transportable by the Soviet-era Mi-8 helicopter, a crucial asset in Kyiv’s operational strategy. However, utilizing this vehicle with the Mi-8 requires specialized training, reflecting the complexity and specific demands of modern warfare. Its lightweight construction, along with a speed capability of up to 75 miles (120 kilometers) per hour, enables rapid deployment, critical in the dynamic combat environment Ukraine currently faces.
This instance of the Flyer 72-LD’s deployment underscores the ongoing trend of the US discreetly providing advanced military equipment to Ukraine. Not only has this vehicle surfaced, but similar actions have included the covert transfer of long-range ATACMS, which was initially kept under wraps until it was confirmed by US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel in April 2024. Additionally, in early 2024, Shield AI had sent a limited number of V-BAT drones for combat assessment in Ukraine, further exemplifying the continued secretive nature of military assistance to the embattled nation.
