The Saracen was developed shortly after the end of World War II as part of the FV600 series of 6 x 6 armored fighting vehicles that also included the Saladin reconnaissance vehicle. It eventually became the standard APC of the British Army during the 1950s and 1960s until replaced by the FV432. The peculiarly-designed hull of the Saracen is of all-welded steel with a prominent engine compartment at the front and a rear troop compartment that can fit up to eight infantrymen that dismount via two rear doors. A pair of firing ports are also provided, which complement a pair of 7.62-mm machine guns, one turret-mounted and the other mounted on a ring mount at the rear of the roof. However, the Saracen lacks NBC protection and it is not amphibious except for a deep fording kit that is optional. Aside from APC, the Saracen was used in numerous other roles, and was exported to as many as 15 countries for both military as well as policing duties. Combat service has been extensive, being used by the UK in the Aden and Malayan Emergencies and most notably, during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Additionally, it has been used in combat by South Africa during the Namibian War of Independence as well as Lebanon during its civil war.

The first prototype of the FV603 Saracen was completed in 1952 with production vehicles following the next year. This was based on the FV600 design that was initially developed by the Fighting Vehicles Research and Development Establishment, and later taken over by Alvis. The Saracen went through various incremental upgrades throughout its service life, including the fitting of additional armor for operations in Northern Ireland. An export-version designed for the Middle East was known as the FV603 (C) and was fitted with a reverse-flow cooling system (others were built with an open roof). There is also the FV604 and FV610 command vehicles, and the FV611 ambulance.