Russia renames Terminator combat vehicle to Spiridon

The Terminator tank support combat vehicle, produced by Russia’s Uralvagonzavod, has been officially renamed Spiridon, the company’s press service said.

The decision to change the name was reportedly initiated by factory employees and crews operating the BMPT vehicles, Caliber.Az reports, citing Russian media.

The company said the rebranding was prompted by concerns that the previous name was associated with a foreign “robot-destroyer” image, while the new designation is intended to reflect “Russian spiritual values” and symbolize the courage of the people.

The manufacturer noted that the name Spiridon carries traditional and historical significance in Russian culture. The explanation referenced several religious and historical figures, including Saint Spyridon of Trimythous and Archbishop Spyridon of Novgorod and Pskov. Additional historical individuals bearing the same name were also mentioned.

The company further stated that the name Spiridon, while relatively uncommon, is regarded with respect in Russia and is, according to its interpretation, associated with the concept of a “box” or “body,” which it described as a symbol of structural strength and durability in human-made objects.

By Vafa Guliyeva