Indonesia Accepts First Batch of Turkey-Developed Kaplan Tanks

Indonesia’s military took delivery of the first batch of Kaplan MT/Harimau medium-weight tanks jointly produced by Ankara-based FNSS and Indonesian company PT Pindad.

This marks the first export of Turkish-developed tank.

Ismail Demir, head of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) of Turkey said the tanks will be produced in both countries and that the contract included technology transfer. He revealed that mass production of Kaplan MT has begun and will continue.

The 30 to 35-ton tank’s turret is currently sourced from Belgium and the two countries have shown interest in developing it domestically.

A CMI Cockerill 3105 tower equipped to fire high-pressured 105mm shells provides the tank’s primary firepower while secondary weapon is a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun. The tank has a full automatic transmission and is able to carry three crew members -- a driver, shooter and commander. With a maximum speed of 70kmph the vehicle's range is 450km. Ballistic guards protect the tank's body and the vehicle has add-on armor. In addition, the tank's belly is guarded against mines.