Yiannis Ioannou
The Cyprus Police Force is upgrading its tactical response capabilities with the addition of a new armored vehicle to its fleet, specifically for the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (EAO) of MMAD.
The vehicle, a URO VAMTAC (Vehículo de Alta Movilidad Táctico), is often compared to the American Humvee and is built by Spanish manufacturer Urovesa. What sets this version apart is that it's equipped with a high-tech MARS (Mobile Adjustable Ramp System), a hydraulic ladder system made by U.S.-based company Patriot 3.
This MARS system can be deployed in just 10 seconds and is designed for high-risk operations, such as hostage rescues from tall buildings, airplanes, and buses. It allows officers to make quick, elevated entries and has already been successfully used in real-world missions by police and military teams around the world.
The EAO’s new matte black URO VAMTAC is built for rugged operations. It’s nearly 5 meters long, over 2 meters wide, and weighs up to 3.5 tons. Despite its size, it has a range of over 600 kilometers and can tackle steep slopes with ease, up to 70% incline and 50% sideways. It runs on a powerful 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine by Steyr Motors and features a five-speed automatic transmission.
The vehicle is expected to be a game-changer for Cyprus’ anti-terror and emergency response teams. It provides a major advantage in situations like hijackings, allowing officers to respond faster and more effectively during critical incidents.
With this new addition, the Cyprus Police are not just improving mobility; they're raising the bar for tactical readiness.
*This article was translated from its Greek original
