On May 28, 2025, during IDET 2025, DefTech Slovakia introduced the advanced 4×4 Wolf armored vehicle, a cutting-edge multi-mission platform designed to provide mobile air defense and precision engagement against a wide range of threats. Combining a multirole turret with an S-band AESA radar and integrated fire control systems, the Wolf embodies a new generation of highly agile combat vehicles for modern operational environments. This innovative solution underscores a growing demand for versatile, sensor-fused platforms capable of addressing both aerial and ground threats in dynamic battlefields.
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DefTech’s development of the Wolf platform reflects an urgent operational need to integrate mobile air defense, counter-UAV capabilities, and ground combat roles within a single vehicle (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)
The Wolf armored vehicle is built on a highly modular 4×4 chassis with independent suspension, delivering a GVW of up to 5000 kg and a maximum speed of 120 km/h. With an operational temperature range between -40°C and +49°C, it offers full protection for a crew of five, including the driver. Designed as a 50% armored combat output frontline vehicle, the Wolf can adapt to various mission profiles. At its core is the lightweight Mangart remotely controlled multirole turret, featuring advanced stabilization, automatic target tracking, and weapon flexibility. The turret supports 360-degree azimuth and 75-degree elevation, mounting a 25mm Oerlikon KBA automatic cannon capable of firing NATO-standard 25×137 mm ammunition types such as HEI-T, SAPHEI-T, APDS-T, and proximity-fuzed rounds. Complementing this firepower are options for gatling guns and guided or unguided rockets. The S-band AESA multi-mission radar offers 360-degree coverage and tracks up to 150 simultaneous targets, with detection ranges of 10 km for UAVs, 20 km for fighter aircraft, and 13 km for helicopters. It also provides ballistic computing to coordinate counter-battery fire and intercept incoming threats. The integrated EOS Lotus Lite sighting system enhances target engagement through gyrostabilized thermal, low-light, and daylight imaging, supported by a laser rangefinder effective up to 3.85 km.
DefTech’s development of the Wolf platform reflects an urgent operational need to integrate mobile air defense, counter-UAV capabilities, and ground combat roles within a single vehicle. The program aligns with trends observed in systems such as the US IM-SHORAD Stryker or Germany’s Rheinmetall Skyranger 30, yet the Wolf distinguishes itself through its modularity and lighter 4×4 configuration. This design enables superior off-road agility and faster strategic mobility, ideal for European terrain and rapid deployment forces. Drawing from extensive R&D and lessons learned from asymmetric conflicts, the Wolf has progressed from concept to prototype stage with active demonstrations for potential NATO customers scheduled throughout 2025.
Compared to heavier tracked or 8×8-based SHORAD platforms, the Wolf offers a more affordable and adaptable solution. Its seamless integration of sensors, radar, and precision weapons allows faster sensor-to-shooter cycles, outperforming older gun-based air defense systems. The modular Mangart turret also provides multi-role engagement flexibility not present in traditional short-range air defense vehicles. From a historical standpoint, it represents a significant evolution from legacy platforms like the Gepard or Tunguska, now optimized for the modern hybrid threat environment where UAVs, loitering munitions, and cruise missiles must all be countered effectively.
Strategically, the Wolf addresses NATO’s growing emphasis on mobile layered air defense, especially in response to lessons from the war in Ukraine where drone saturation and precision artillery have reshaped battlefield dynamics. Geopolitically, its adoption could enhance the deterrent capabilities of Eastern European NATO members seeking rapid deployable SHORAD assets. Militarily, the Wolf offers an ideal complement to mechanized brigades, convoy protection missions, and urban operations where flexibility and rapid reaction are key.
The Wolf armored vehicle from DefTech embodies a forward-looking approach to mobile air defense and multi-domain engagement. By merging advanced sensor fusion, modular weaponry, and high mobility in a single package, it offers military forces an adaptable and affordable solution for countering today’s complex threat landscape.