Indonesia’s PT Pindad, Turkey’s FNSS Refine Modern Medium Weight Tank Prototype

Indonesia’s PT Pindad and Turkey’s FNSS have reached the prototype refinement stage in their joint project to develop the Modern Medium Weight Tank (MMWT), a 30-tonne tank with a 105mm turret.

This stage is being carried out by FNSS in Ankara, Turkey.

The Indonesian defense ministry revealed this development during a recent visit to Turkey by the Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia and his entourage. The delegation visited FNSS Defense Systems, a Turkish defense manufacturer, and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS). The visit to TUSAS aimed to further cooperation with PTDI, including the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The MMWT collaboration began in 2014.  According to reports, MMWT design includes advanced ballistic and mine protection capabilities and offers a broad range of firepower, from close support of infantry to anti-armor roles. Its precision direct-fire capability ensures required lethality, coupled with tactical and strategic mobility. The vehicle's rear configuration power pack is combined with electronically controlled systems and a heavy-duty suspension system.

The MMWT features a new generation engine that provides adequate power, coupled with a fully automatic electronically controlled transmission, resulting in a minimum of 20 hp/ton ratio, depending on the configurable protection system. The mobility capability of the MMWT comes from its 6-wheeled suspension system built on torsion bars with double pinned tracks. The vehicle is equipped with a high-capacity cooling pack and fuel tanks. The cooling pack is managed by an intelligent software-driven hydraulic fan for optimum torque extraction and fuel economy. Two separate fuel tanks provide a minimum operating range of 450 km. An auxiliary power unit enables turret operation when the vehicle engine is not running by charging the battery system, which includes a battery monitoring system for optimum power management and Silent Watch capabilities.

The interior of the MMWT is designed with careful consideration for crew ergonomics and various tactical and battlefield conditions, including driving, firing, and ammunition loading and unloading. The driver's seat provides an adequate field of view and accessibility to all cabin equipment.

The MMWT comprises a modern technology platform with firepower supported by battlefield management and laser warning systems, providing tactical awareness to the commander. It features high-end mine and ballistic protection, ensuring the required fire support against battlefield threats with rapid response, superior survivability, and mobility on the battlefield.

The MMWT’s direct-fire combat roles may include operations against medium and light armor, such as infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), armored personnel carriers (APCs), reconnaissance vehicles, combat support vehicles, armored engineering vehicles, artillery equipment, recovery vehicles, and logistic support vehicles. It is also suitable for fire support tasks against dismounted infantry, logistic support sites, and defensive positions.

For these roles, the MMWT combines an effective direct-fire weapon with a capable sighting system, enabling it to achieve first-round hits at long ranges. The tank can fire both armor-piercing (AP) and high-explosive (HE) ammunition and can employ secondary weapons such as 50-cal or 7.62 mm machine guns for medium-range area targets and close-range self-defense.

While medium tanks are generally not a match for heavy main battle tanks (MBTs) in the 60-70 tonne range, the MMWT can be tasked against MBTs in specific scenarios using its stealth and mobility. These scenarios include mobile screening operations, flank attacks, ambushes, emergency delaying operations, and support of friendly MBTs. The MMWT is also suitable for other roles, including rear area security against light mobile or air-landed forces, counter-penetration roles, delaying operations, combat reconnaissance tasks, screening operations, escorting light armor or soft-skinned vehicle convoys, and deep penetration operations in enemy rear areas.