After the 8-year imposed war on Iran, the country's efforts to build tactical vehicles finally came to fruition in 2001, and Safir 4×4 vehicle was introduced to the armed forces in 2018. Safir used Jeep's platform. Then Aras 1 was introduced in 2011, and 7 years later, it was upgraded to Aras 2.
Iran's Aras 1; similar to the US-made Hammer
Aras 1 was unveiled in 2011 in the then Minister of Defence Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi. The vehicle is similar to the US-made Hammer and is equipped with a Z24 turbocharge diesel 3153 cc motor enjoying 133 hp power.
The chassis of Aras tactical vehicle was developed out of the F-4. 5 Toyota chassis. This car can withstand 1,450 kg on the front axle and 2,700 kg on the rear axle. The suspension of this car in the front part is of all-float roller spring with a three-lever mechanism, and in the back part is of all-float spring with a five-axis mechanism.
The steering system of this car is hydraulic. Its braking system is a two-hydraulic circuit equipped with an ABS anti-lock braking system and EBS electronic braking system (EBS), which provides the vehicle with the ability to steer while braking.
Aras with two integrated cabins can be used to carry commanders, offensive vehicles, and behind the barrier in all impassable and urban operational areas. Armor capability, integrated cover, diesel heater, and rear protector are essential features of Aras.
Kaviran model with high maneuverability
'Kaviran,' an optimized model of Aras 1, is a battlefield vehicle with high agility and maneuverability. Kaviran is a vehicle for passing through rugged and impassable areas that increase the armed forces' ground battles.
The vehicle is of a 500-km operational radius and can cross the 70% longitudinal slope and 35% transverse slope in operating conditions, meanwhile enjoying the ability to cross rivers with a depth of 70 cm.
It is used as a command vehicle, troops carrier, ambulance, and capable of carrying a 107 mm rocket launcher and 120 mm mortar.
The interesting point with the tactical vehicle is the ability to have oscillated movements on the ups and downs of sandy and mountainous areas, relying on its powerful shock absorbers.
Sepehr model carries anti-tank missiles
Sepehr is able to carry ten troops, 1.5 tons of cargo including equipment, weapons, and anti-tank missiles, moving with a velocity of 130 km/h. it also enjoys a suspension system that helps it not overturned on mountainous and steep slopes. According to military sources, this vehicle is designed to be used in asymmetric commando operations while carrying the commandos to high points.
DShK and 25 mm cannons also can be installed on Sepehr, with the ability to shoot from inside the vehicle. Such an option is provided by the portable cabins of Sepehr, which can be moved to make it possible to install semi-heavy weapons on it.
The vehicle remains dual-use, one for transporting people and the other for installing semi-heavy weapons.
Aras 1 and its two sub-type Kaviran and Sepehr, played a significant role in the battle against terrorist groups, especially ISIS in Syria and Iraq.
Aras 2 was unveiled in 2019 in the presence of the then Minister of Defense Brigadier General Amir Hatami and the Commander of Army Ground Force Brigadier General Kiumars Heidari.
There, General Hatami enumerated some of Aras 2 features, including high mobility in impassable areas, installation of weapons and military equipment with increased weight, having increased power and torque, high strength to weight ratio compared to the previous generation in terms of engine, high operational radius (750 km), lower fuel consumption, emission standard, acceleration, load-carrying capacity.
The Ministry of Defense's access to the knowledge of manufacturing and production of these vehicles is an essential step in providing advanced vehicles manufactured by only a few countries.
Aras 2 is a joint production of Iran's Defense Industries Organization and knowledge-based companies. It is the upgraded version of Aras 1. With a powerful 200 hp and 470 Nm of torque, Aras 2 has 50% more power and torque than Aras 1.
Here is what Aras1 differs from Aras2
The difference between the appearance of Aras 2 and Aras 1 in the front view and the fenders. The modification of the design of the fenders has made the front view of Aras 2 look more muscular.
The type of structure and chassis of Aras 2 is similar to that of Aras 1. Aras 2, like Sepehr, uses an advanced suspension system with an adjustable angle to prevent overturning. Also, some weaknesses of Aras 1, such as weak clutch, have been removed in Aras 2 (Source: Iran Press).
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