“Non-stop wheels” are being tested for military pickups in Ukraine

2 January, 2024 RunFlat technology. December 2023, Ukraine. Photo credits: Mykhailo Fedorov

Ukraine is testing the technology of special inserts that will allow military pickup trucks to move even with damaged tires. Mykhailo Fedorov, Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, reported that "non-stop wheels" are being tested for combat pickups as part of the Brave1 platform. RunFlat technology is a special insert into car tires that would allow the vehicle to drive even on broken or damaged tires.

This is especially important when evacuating the wounded, performing a combat mission, or delivering provisions to the Defense Forces. The military don't have to stop and put themselves in danger - they can continue moving to a safe place.

RunFlat technology. December 2023, Ukraine. Photo credits: Mykhailo Fedorov

"Ukrainian RunFlat inserts are not inferior to world models and are produced from materials that are not subject to premature destruction," Mykhailo Fedorov noted.

Now, the development team plans to launch mass production and expand the range to large armored vehicles. The technology is made of polyurethane. RunFlat is inserted into the middle of the wheel, and due to this, the damaged tire falls on the insert.

The developers previously shared with Militarnyi that they planned to equip 200-300 vehicles with this technology.

RunFlat technology.

2023, Ukraine. Frame from Militarnyi's video

The Brave1 coordinational platform allows Ukrainian developers to engage in defense technologies with less financial investment on their part.

The platform's team and specialized experts provide developers with financial, informational, and organizational support to gain technological superiority over the enemy and bring victory forward.

In December 2023, it was reported that the Ministry of Defense would purchase 1,016 pickup trucks for the military.