Spanish Guardian 30 Module Spotted on Ukrainian IFV

During the transport of equipment belonging to the 146th Separate Repair and Restoration Regiment in Ukraine, an infantry fighting vehicle with an unusual turret configuration was spotted, which may be equipped with the Spanish Guardian 30 remotely controlled combat module.

This is evidenced by published photographs of the 146th Separate Repair and Restoration Regiment, which caught the attention of military equipment researchers, including Jeff2146 on X.

Previously, the Ministry of Strategic Industries reported on plans to localize the production of Guardian 30 modules in Ukraine.

The published images show a Soviet-era IFV equipped with a new remotely controlled combat module that outwardly resembles the Spanish Guardian 30 manufactured by Escribano Mechanical & Engineering.

The module is equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon, a twin machine gun, and a modern optoelectronic surveillance and guidance system.

One can also notice the characteristic layout of the sighting system and armored protection elements, which correspond to the Guardian 30 design.

There is currently no official confirmation regarding the type of module installed, but its appearance differs significantly from the standard turrets of the BMP-1 or BMP-2.

In May 2025, the Ministry of Strategic Industries reported on negotiations with representatives of the Spanish company EM&M regarding the possible localization of Guardian 30 combat module production in Ukraine.

At that time, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation with Ukrainian defense enterprises and the possibility of launching production of individual components on Ukrainian territory.

The Guardian 30 is a remotely controlled combat module that can be integrated onto various types of wheeled and tracked platforms.

Depending on the configuration, the module is capable of using 30×113 mm or 30×173 mm automatic cannons, as well as anti-tank missile systems.

The appearance of such a vehicle in Ukraine may indicate both the testing of a new combat module and the start of the practical implementation of a project to localize the Spanish design for the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Earlier, the Norwegian ammunition manufacturer NAMMO signed a strategic cooperation agreement with a Ukrainian company.