Russian Special Forces deploy new Centurion armored vehicle.

On March 17, 2024, Russian social media shared the first images of a new armored vehicle for Russia's special forces, dubbed the "Centurion". The vehicle, unofficially dubbed the "Batmobile" by some Russian media outlets because of its matt black finish, may be a new version of the Falcatus. These first images show a highly angular vehicle with a particular arrangement of its windscreen, probably for ballistic protection reasons.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Details regarding the Centurion remain limited, with expectations that more information will become available at upcoming military equipment exhibitions, like the Army forum. (Picture source: Russian social media)

The Centurion features a 4x4 wheel arrangement with body sides angled presumably to deflect incoming ammunition. The design includes four doors, each fitted with individual firing ports, and a rear entry, suggesting a focus on accessibility and combat readiness. Additionally, the vehicle is outfitted with a 360-degree video surveillance system, indicating an emphasis on situational awareness.

The full specifications of the Centurion have not been disclosed. However, there is speculation that the vehicle includes features such as bulletproof and mine-resistant protection, based on its design and structure. The Centurion is also believed to be equipped with a powerful engine and a reinforced suspension system, designed to facilitate high-speed travel on various types of terrain. Details regarding these features remain limited, with expectations that more information will become available at upcoming military equipment exhibitions, like the Army forum.

Discussions on Russian social networks have highlighted possible design parallels between the newly unveiled Centurion armored car and the Falcatus, an existing armored vehicle utilized by the Russian Federal Security Service's (FSB) Special Purpose Center (TsSN) for over a decade. Observations focus on shared design elements such as armor structure, the inclusion and arrangement of shooting ports, strategies for all-round visibility, and the implementation of multiple doors. These similarities have led to speculation regarding a potential relationship or common design influences between the two vehicles, suggesting a continued emphasis on specific operational requirements such as protection, visibility, and accessibility.

The Falcatus, alternatively known as the Punisher, has been documented in special operations and training exercises involving the FSB TsSN since 2012. However, comprehensive details about the Falcatus's specifications remain closely guarded, reflecting the typical confidentiality associated with military and security assets. This secrecy aligns with the strategic importance and sensitive nature of the vehicle’s deployment in security operations, limiting public access to detailed information.

In an official event in February 2016, attended by President Vladimir Putin, FSB officials disclosed that the Falcatus was engineered with a specific focus on the needs of the department's special forces. It was stated that the vehicle's armor meets the Russian State Standard for protection class 6A. This classification suggests the vehicle is designed to offer substantial protection, notably from armor-piercing incendiary bullets like those fired from SVD sniper rifles, at close range. Such specifications are consistent with the demands of protecting personnel in high-risk operational scenarios.

The Falcatus is an armored vehicle utilized by the Russian Federal Security Service's (FSB) Special Purpose Center (TsSN) for over a decade. (Pïcture source: Russian social media)