Rapid Trident-2016 military exercises are being held from June 27 to July 8 in the territory of Yavorov training area in Lvov region. They has been held since 2006 as part of the Partnership for Peace military cooperation program. Rapid Trident-2016 exercises are aimed at introducing and sharing best practice of the armies of advanced countries of the world, improving cooperation between units of ground forces of US, Ukraine, armies of NATO country-members and Partnership for Peace members.
Over 200 military vehicles including KrAZ-Spartan armored vehicles are used in these exercises. Old campaigners of Air Landing Troops fought hybrid war against cadets during tactical exercises covered in military TV program of Ukraine.
Ukrainian troopers came to Rapid Trident-2016 on Spartan vehicles in service with their unit. These national armored vehicles had their first combat in ATO zone. A driver of Spartan, trooper Vyacheslav Shpak said these vehicles participated in assault of Donetsk airport and seizure of Butovka mine. He emphasized that no Spartan was completely inoperative in combat and their crews remained safe and sound. He praised easy maneuvering and comfort of these vehicles.
KrAZ-Spartan is based on Ford F-550 chassis and proved to be a reliable vehicle in many combat operations of US and NATO armies in Middle East and Africa countries. Jobs that this vehicle tackles include patrolling dangerous areas, carrying and protecting crew from small arms fire and blast mine explosion.
Under the conditions typical for ATO zone Spartan is a vehicle for close combat, a light armored personnel carrier, it is used for driving on rugged terrains that could not but affect loading conditions. “AutoKrAZ” carefully analyzed claims and recommendations of military and improved vehicle design to meet various needs in conformity with technical specifications. The plant has received and receives many gratitude calls and letters from warriors whose lives were saved thanks to KrAZ armored vehicles. (KrAZ/Business World Magazine)