Expodefensa 2025 – IAG’s showcases its Guardian Xtreme MRAP reinforced protection platform
At the ExpoDefensa 2025 exhibition in Bogotá, Colombia, International Armored Group (IAG) showcased its Guardian Xtreme Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle – a platform designed for advanced combat, tactical response, and security tasks in high-risk environments. The vehicle, already in service with UN peacekeeping contingents in Lebanon and tested by the Colombian Army at the event, stands out for its operational flexibility and rapid response capabilities, owed to its lightweight chassis and robust architecture
As a central exhibit in Latin America’s defence and security showcase, the Guardian Xtreme reflects IAG’s commitment to certified armoured solutions tailored to the requirements of modern armed forces.
The Guardian Xtreme is offered in both 6×6 and 4×4 layouts, data being available only for the two-axles version. This is 5.95 metres long, 2.56 metres high, and 2.43 metres wide, with a ground clearance of approximately 0.29 metres. It is powered by a 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine producing 330 horsepower at 2,600 rpm and 1,016 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, paired with a TorqShift six-speed automatic. This configuration can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h and has an operational range between 700 and 800 kilometres at sustained speed.
Combat mass is 9.8 tonnes, supporting a payload of up to 1,088 kg. Suspensions are based on a monobeam single-arm front design and a four-link rear suspension for advanced adaptability, while option of independent suspension system, complemented by a central tyre inflation system (CTIS) for improved terrain performance. The Guardian Xtreme is able to cross a one-metre-deep water course without additional preparation and can manage side slopes of 30%.
In terms of armament, the vehicle can be fitted with a 360-degree manual turret ring, or with an automated remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), supporting up to a 12.7 mm machine gun or 40 mm automatic grenade launcher. The V-hull chassis is engineered for survivability against blasts: certified to STANAG 4569 Levels 2a/b for mine resistance, upgradable to 3a/2b (up to 8 kg TNT detonations beneath the wheels or central hull) and ballistic protection at Level 2, upgradable to Level 2 via additional lightweight armour. Protection covers the engine bay, front, sides, rear, and roof. Standard layout includes two side doors, a bullet-resistant windscreen, 13 vision blocks, roof escape hatch, and seating for 10 in the 4×4 and 12 in the 6×6 model – using anti-trauma, five-point harness seats.
Advanced onboard safety is further supported by a four-channel video recorder with infrared night camera and a hydro-boosted ABS brake system across all wheels, promoting crew safety and vehicle stability.
Based on the Ford F550 Super Duty architecture, the Guardian Xtreme incorporates significant upgrades compared to the standard Guardian model. Key improvements include a complete V-hull floor – unlike previous partial protection – offering superior blast deflection.
Other enhancements comprise reinforced front axle, run-flat heavy-duty steel or aluminium wheels, engine braking, roll stability control (RSC), and a fire suppression system for the engine. The electrical system has been upgraded to 24V with 78Ah batteries and 200–357Ah alternators, with additional options for onboard 110V sockets.
The 6×6 variant further extends payload and stability with its third axle, while modular designs facilitate quick transformation to ambulance or command post configurations. These technical upgrades, highlighted at ExpoDefensa, demonstrate IAG’s mission to deliver scalable MRAP platforms to address the operational demands and asymmetrical threats faced by Latin American defence forces.
Photos by J. Roukoz
