According to information on Russian social media dated October 9, 2023, Russian troops in Ukraine received the new up-armored Tigr-M SpN variant of the Tigr-M light armored vehicle, affectionately nicknamed "Mad Max" by its developers. These vehicles boast reinforced wheels, front body sections, windshields, and modified doors to enhance protection. The Tigr-M SpN can be armed with a 12.7 mm Kord, a 7.62 mm PKTM machine gun, or an Arbalet-DM remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS).
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Russia's up-armored 'Mad Max' Tigr-M SpN was spotted in Ukraine (Picture source: Telegram and Vitaly Kuzmin)
The core innovation of this development is the rapid attachment of supplementary armored panels, covering vital areas like the windshield, wheel arches, radiator grille, and front doors. This additional armor enhances resistance, making the vehicle capable of withstanding 7.62 mm bullets, a critical feature for troop protection in high-intensity conflict scenarios. The installation or removal of this quick-mounting armor system is estimated to take approximately 40 minutes.
These enhancements are designed to ensure convoy safety, offer troop cover, support reconnaissance missions, and enhance the combat capabilities and survivability of the Tigr-M. The development's origins can be traced back to August 14, 2023, when the Russian Ministry of Defense placed a significant order for Tigr-M SpN armored vehicles. This unique variant, inspired by the aesthetics of the Mad Max universe, was first publicly unveiled at the Army 2023 event.
However, questions about the increased weight due to added protection and its potential impact on the fundamental characteristics of the Tigr-M remain unanswered.
The Tigr-M is an upgraded version of the 4x4 light tactical vehicle Tigr, designed and manufactured by the Russian defense company Arzamas Machinery-Plant. This multipurpose armored vehicle is developed to meet the requirements of the Russian Defence Ministry, featuring improved operational characteristics, reliability, ergonomics, and protection against bullets and landmines. With a combat weight of 5,300 kg and a payload capacity of 1,500 kg, it can transport up to 10 fully equipped infantrymen. Serving as both an armored personnel carrier and cargo vehicle, it entered Russian army service in 2013 and is produced in various variants, including the Leer-2 electronic warfare vehicle, the Gibka-S air defense system, and the P-230T command system.
The Tigr-M can be armed with a light machine gun or grenade launcher, accommodating a 7.62mm Pecheneg machine gun or 30mm AGS-17 grenade launchers on its roof. Its design provides protection against small-arms fire, shell fragments, and IED blasts, featuring bulletproof hull and door windows and spall liners for personnel safety. Powered by a Russian-made YaMZ-5347-10 diesel engine producing 215 hp, it achieves a maximum road speed of 125 to 140 km/h. The vehicle excels in off-road capabilities and can ford water up to 1.3 m deep. Additionally, it includes a central tire inflation system, an electric winch, an automatic fire extinguishing system, and other enhancements.
