MAC OWL AFV – Ukraine's First STANAG 4a/b Class Armored Vehicle

During the development of the MAC OWL armored vehicle, company engineers analyzed global combat operations over the past 30 years, compared AFVs from various manufacturers, and worked on a project for a universal combat vehicle. Crew protection is the key task of any infantry fighting vehicle, so the MAC OWL features formidable armor without sacrificing maneuverability or speed.

“We designed the capsule structure to provide high ground clearance, achieving a mine protection level of STANAG 4a/b. Most of our competitors offer STANAG 3a/b. This means our AFV can withstand a 10-kilogram TNT explosion under any wheel and 10 kilograms under the hull,” says the MAC OWL Chief Engineer.

MAC OWL Chief Engineer / Photo by MAC HUB

The main armor is designed based on a two-layer principle — a so-called “sandwich panel.” The primary protection is made of armored steel to stop incoming fire, while the inner layer consists of polymer materials that withstand prolonged fire attacks and contain spall.

The OWL's bulletproof protection level is PZSA-6, yet its armor thickness is 16 mm, effectively turning the vehicle into an MRAP. “Usually, machines in this class have 10-12 mm armor,” the engineer explains. “Ours is 16 mm thick. We did this so the vehicle could withstand prolonged fire during an ambush”.

If necessary, MAC OWL's protection can be reinforced with external ceramic elements, increasing the protection level to withstand 14.5 mm calibers. However, in next-generation warfare, strong armor is no longer the sole decisive factor. Without AI, electronic warfare (EW), and reconnaissance tools, an armored vehicle remains vulnerable. Therefore, the OWL features a 360-degree vision system with automatic target and obstacle detection, as well as an EW suite.

MAC OWL Armored Fighting Vehicle / Photo by MAC HUB

Despite its protection, the AFV is quite maneuverable and fast. It can ford depths up to 1200 mm without prior preparation and cross ditches 800 mm wide. The permissible climb angle is 60°, with a maximum side slope angle of 21°. Speed depends on various factors (terrain, additional armor, etc.), but the vehicle can reach up to 100 km/h and has a 700 km range in mixed mode.

For additional crew safety, the vehicle is equipped with an automatic fire suppression system: AFDSS mechanisms instantly detect and extinguish fires in the crew cabin and engine compartment. The MAC OWL also features an independent liquid cooling system for operation in the harshest conditions without overheating. Another goal engineers set was maximum ease of operation.

“Our vehicle is a monocoque — a solid capsule into which all elements and components are directly mounted. The engine and gearbox are one element, the suspension consists of several others. If something fails, you simply remove the specific module, install a new one, and continue. You don't need complex tools or specialized skills; it can all be done in the field,” explains the MAC OWL Chief Engineer.

MAC OWL Armored Fighting Vehicle / Photo by MAC HUB

If needed, the vehicle can be converted into a medevac within hours. The turret (designed for a Browning machine gun in the current modification) is removed and replaced with a special plug. Side seats for troops are replaced with stretchers, and a medic's chair is mounted in the center. The vehicle also features gas-filled shock absorbers, making the ride exceptionally smooth for evacuating the wounded. The developers also included basic comforts like heating and air conditioning. Work on this project lasted over a year, with consultations from representatives of the Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR).