19 january, 2026 | 359

AZOV.GEAR: Test drive of Ukraine’s latest armored vehicle «Varta-2»

This combat armored vehicle has already been successfully tested on the front line by fighters of the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov.

The vehicle is equipped with all the capabilities required to carry out combat missions in any terrain, including under conditions of intense enemy drone activity.

Learn more from the Varta-2’s driver-mechanic and a fighter of the 6th Battalion, “Prut,” who conducted a full review of his armored vehicle and explained its key features.

1 corps azov 1 corps ngu azov 12 azov brigade armored combat vehicles azov azov brigade azov.gear corps azov national guard of ukraine varta-2

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FAQ

Unlike the operational and tactical group model, a corps commander can exercise command and control over subordinate units.

The corps system enables more efficient management of combat forces at the operational-tactical level. It addresses the issue of fragmented command structures, strengthens unit cohesion, improves combat effectiveness, and ensures a unified chain of command — critical for conducting large-scale combat operations.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is responsible for key tasks related to both defensive and offensive operations in the frontline sector designated by the High Command, including:

Liberating the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine;
Destroying enemy personnel and equipment;
Increasing the combat effectiveness of National Guard units and advancing the profession of arms;
Implementing standards and exchanging experience.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is commanded by Brigadier General Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.

The following units operate as part of the corps:

1st Presidential Operational Brigade “Bureviy”;
8th Artillery Brigade “Harmash”;
12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov”;
14th Operational Brigade “Chervona Kalyna”;
15th Operational Brigade “Kara Dag”;
20th Operational Brigade “Lubart”.

Yes. Units within the corps continue recruiting volunteers. As Azov’s responsibilities and operational scope grow, its recruitment center network will serve the needs of all Corps units. Azov Brigade’s recruitment centers will now be joined by representatives from other brigades that make up the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov serves as the foundation for the newly established First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. However, the corps itself is led by a corps-level command group formed based on the officer cadre of the 12th Brigade.

AZOV.GEAR: Test drive of Ukraine’s latest armored vehicle «Varta-2»

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FAQ

Why was the corps system introduced?

What tasks will the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine carry out?

Who is the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

What units comprise the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

Does the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine recruit new service members?

Is the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine expanding into a corps?

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Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine commends soldiers of the 1 Corps Azov

Ground robotic system operation by the 20 operational brigade Lubart on the front line

Denys “Redis” Prokopenko – brigadier general