FNSS, PT Pindad Sign Deal to Produce New KAPLAN Armored Vehicles for Indonesia

Turkish defense manufacturer FNSS Defense Systems and Indonesian company PT Pindad, have agreed to produce a new armored personnel carrier (APC) based on the KAPLAN MT, a medium tank that was previously delivered to the Indonesian Armed Forces.

The vehicles, which will be developed in two different configurations, are set for delivery by the end of 2026.

The news, reported by Turkish media, highlights that FNSS and PT Pindad will collaborate on the project, with FNSS handling production in Türkiye and PT Pindad overseeing production in Indonesia. FNSS CEO Nail Kurt was quoted as saying by Türkiye Today that the year 2025 will be dedicated to designing and prototyping the new vehicles, with 2026 focused on testing. "By the end of 2026, we aim to deliver both vehicles to the Indonesian Army," Kurt stated.

The exact number of armored vehicles to be produced has not been disclosed, but reports suggest that the total number of orders is notably high.

The FNSS Kaplan APC is an armored personnel carrier with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 22 horsepower per ton. It accommodates a crew of 13, including the gunner, driver, and commander. The vehicle is powered by a diesel engine and equipped with an automatic transmission. It can reach a maximum road speed of 70 km/h and has a range of 450 km. The Kaplan can tackle gradients up to 60%, side slopes of 30%, vertical obstacles of 0.9 meters, and cross trenches up to 2.2 meters. The APC utilizes steel tracks with replaceable pads and is available with composite rubber tracks. Its suspension system is based on torsion bars.

In terms of mobility, the Kaplan provides ballistic, mine, and IED protection in accordance with the classified levels of STANAG 4569. Optional features include an active protection system, laser warning system, and gunshot detection system. The vehicle comes equipped with eight smoke grenade dischargers, a standard automatic fire suppression system, and a CBRN protection system. Climate control, including both air conditioning and a heater, is also standard in the Kaplan APC.