Iran continues to advance its defense capabilities by upgrading Soviet-era armored vehicles, showcasing one of its latest developments, the Heidar-7, during the military parade held on April 18, 2024, celebrating the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Day. The Heidar-7, a modernized version of the Soviet-made BTR-60PB, features significant enhancements including a new turret equipped with a 23mm automatic cannon and enhanced protection with Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) on the turret and hull sides.
First introduced in 2017 during an open day of the Iranian defense industry, the Heidar-7 builds on the chassis of the BTR-60PB, which has been in service since 1961. The original turret of the BTR-60PB was replaced with a new remotely operated weapon station armed with one 23mm automatic cannon. The hull and turret of the vehicle are also fitted with ERA (Explosive Reactive Armor) type armor.
The 23mm cannon, akin to the Soviet-made ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft cannon, enables the Heidar-7 to target low-flying aircraft up to 2.5 km away and armored vehicles up to 2 km, enhancing its operational versatility. Additionally, the vehicle boasts a 360-degree traverse and fully stabilized turret, which is controlled from inside the vehicle. The gunner’s position is strategically placed at the front right of the hull, opposite the driver, equipped with a display that facilitates all-weather, day-and-night operations.
The design retains the all-welded steel armor of the original BTR-60PB, with both the driver and gunner positioned at the front of the hull, protected by a windscreen covered by a top-hinged flap during combat scenarios. This upgrade reflects Iran’s ongoing efforts to bolster its military capabilities amidst enduring international economic sanctions.