Iran has publicly unveiled a previously undisclosed batch of Russian-made Spartak 4×4 MRAP armored vehicles, confirming that the country quietly received them from Russia for its national border forces.
The vehicles were showcased during a ceremony held by Iran’s Law Enforcement Command, alongside domestically produced Joshan armored cars, armored Toyota Land Cruiser 70-series platforms, tactical vehicles, UAVs, and motorcycles. Iranian officials stated that the new deliveries increase border-guard capability by roughly 13 percent and expand the vehicle fleet by about 5 percent.
Commanders explained that many of the vehicles, including the Spartak MRAPs, had been procured earlier and stored for rapid deployment. Foreign systems such as Spartak were described as targeted acquisitions aimed at filling specific gaps within a broader modernization effort.
Capabilities of the Spartak MRAP
Known as the AMN-590951, the Spartak is a Russian mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicle with a V-shaped hull capable of withstanding blasts equivalent to 6–8 kg of TNT. It offers protection against 12.7 mm fire and can be upgraded to resist 14.5 mm rounds.
Powered by a 360-hp turbocharged diesel engine, the vehicle reaches 80–100 km/h on roads and carries a crew of two plus up to ten additional troops. Its roof supports a protected turret for heavy machine guns or automatic grenade launchers and is compatible with remote weapon stations.
The Spartak has seen combat in Syria and Ukraine, where several units were destroyed and others were captured and reused by Ukrainian forces.
Global Operators and Variants
The Spartak platform is operated in various configurations by Gabon, the UAE, Kazakhstan, Libya, and groups affiliated with Russia’s African Corps. Russia has also developed multiple variants, including a three-axle heavy version, an MLRS configuration, artillery command posts, and air-defense models such as the Rapira series.
Part of Broader Iran–Russia Military Cooperation
Iran’s acquisition of the Spartak MRAPs reflects its long-standing defense partnership with Russia. Between 2000 and 2007, about 85 percent of Iran’s military imports originated from Russia. Previous deliveries have included systems such as the S-300 air-defense system and the Murmansk-BN electronic warfare complex.
The introduction of Spartak MRAPs marks another step in Iran’s ongoing modernization of its border security forces, enhancing mobility, protection, and rapid-response capability.
