Vladimir Putin was inaugurated for his unprecedented fifth term as Russia’s president on May 7th, 2024. Arriving at the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Putin was chauffeured in an Armored Aurus Senat L700 limousine, accompanied by a convoy of nine newly launched Aurus Merlon motorcycles.
This vehicle, known as the “Bunker-on-wheels,” replaces his previously favored German-made Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman as the official state car, reflecting Russia’s shift away from Western goods.
The Aurus limousine, which debuted six years earlier during Putin’s fourth term swearing-in ceremony, is renowned for its robust armor capable of withstanding AK-47 fire, grenades, land mines, and even chemical gases. Notably, it possesses unique features such as the ability to protect Putin underwater, highlighting the emphasis on the president’s security amidst various threats.
Putin’s inauguration speech exuded optimism, expressing determination to overcome obstacles and achieve planned objectives during his extended tenure. This event marks a continuation of his leadership, characterized by his background as a former KGB agent and his assertive policies both domestically and on the global stage.
The replacement of Putin’s official state car with a domestically produced armored limousine symbolizes Russia’s endeavor to reduce reliance on Western technology and assert its sovereignty. As Putin begins his fifth term, his choice of vehicle underscores the country’s strategic priorities, emphasizing self-sufficiency and security in the face of geopolitical challenges.
