The Ukrainian army has received a new type of combat vehicle that could become a key element of mobility in modern combat conditions. The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has officially codified and approved for use in the Armed Forces the first domestic all-wheel-drive electric motorcycle called MULE.E.

According to the ministry's press service, the development was carried out at a specialized Ukrainian enterprise producing military products. Engineers created the vehicle based on real requests from the military so that the equipment could effectively perform tasks in high-intensity war conditions.

Versatility in field conditions

The new equipment is positioned as a universal means of transportation. MULE.E is designed to solve a wide range of tasks: from transporting personnel with full armament to transporting small cargo and evacuating wounded soldiers.

The key advantage of the motorcycle is its off-road capability. The vehicle is designed to move on roads with various surfaces and confidently handles off-road terrain, which is critical for operational maneuvering at the front line.

Hybrid power system

One of the main innovations of the model is a well-thought-out energy scheme. The charged batteries of the electric motorcycle are sufficient for a range of almost 100 kilometers. However, unlike many other electric vehicles, MULE.E does not lose mobility after the battery is discharged.

An additional removable gasoline generator is installed on the motorcycle frame. It performs a dual function:

  • While moving or while parked, it charges the motorcycle's standard batteries, allowing the vehicle to operate autonomously.
  • Being removable, the generator can be used as a universal power source in field conditions.

This allows soldiers to charge communication devices, batteries for FPV drones, and mobile phones, as well as provide electricity for other unit needs away from stationary networks.

Large-scale procurement and budget savings

The introduction of new equipment is taking place against the backdrop of a large-scale program to equip the Ukrainian Defense Forces with motorcycles. This year, the army plans to receive a record number of two-wheeled vehicles — about 1,500 units. Six different companies will participate in the deliveries.

Competition among suppliers allowed for the optimization of budget expenditures. By involving six companies in the tender, the final procurement cost was reduced by almost 12 million hryvnias.