Exhibitor: FNSS SAVUNMA SISTEMLERI A.S.
Sector: Vehicles
Brand name: KAPLAN
Manufacturer: FNSS SAVUNMA SISTEMLERI A.S.
Description: In the ever-changing landscape of
the modern warfare, medium-weight
tanks have emerged as an optimum
balance of firepower, mobility,
and protection. These versatile
armoured vehicles will bridge the
gap between main battle tanks and
light armoured vehicles, offering
a balanced solution for modern
military operations.
Medium-weight tanks have been
characterized by their adaptability to
operate within a wider spectrum of
combat scenarios. Their medium weight
enables improved manoeuvrability
and deployability compared to main
battle tanks, while providing enhanced
protection and firepower compared to
light armoured elements. This versatility
enables military forces to respond
rapidly and effectively to wider range
of operational requirements. As a force
multiplier, medium tanks are becoming
invaluable assets in both conventional
and unconventional operations where
manoeuvrability and rapid deployability
are paramount.
FNSS’ KAPLAN MT represents a unique
response to emerging requirements
in modern warfare. KAPLAN MT’s
indigenous design provides the lowest
silhouette and highest power-to-weight
ratio in its class. The platform is designed
for optimum weight and mobility
performance. The latest technology
power pack of the vehicle is combined
with advanced electronic controlled
systems, Auxiliary Power Unit (APU), and
a heavy-duty suspension. These features
enable the tank to ensure reliable and
continuous power during expeditionary
manoeuvres on the battlefield for day and
night operations. Moreover, KAPLAN MT’s
advanced mobility system improves user
ergonomics and extends life cycle of all
mission equipment.
In accordance to the conventional tank
concept, the KAPLAN MT’s powerpack
is positioned at the rear of the platform
with increasing its mobility by enhancing
high acceleration, especially on soft soil
and rough terrain. This design allows the
driver to operate the tank with the highest
level of situational awareness without
the need to open its top hatch. The
concept also provides the tank gun with a
significant depression angle. Other front
engine tanks, converted from personnel
carriers or Armoured Combat Vehicles
(ACVs) cannot offer these capabilities to
the user.
KAPLAN MT’s design architecture
provides a superior level of battlefield
survivability, incorporating advanced
ballistic and best-in-class mine protection
systems. Active protection system can
also be integrated as an option, based
on user requirements. KAPLAN MT’s
interior design is highly focused on user
ergonomics and optimum crew comfort
to increase overall performance of its
users during operational tasks. KAPLAN
MT is equipped with day and thermal
cameras, multi-functional digital driver
dashboard, and wide-angle optical
periscopes for the driver. To provide
hunter-killer capability, a third-generation
high-performance sight system is
also available for both the gunner and
the commander. In addition, it has a
Battlefield Management System (BMS)
and Laser Warning Systems (LWS) to
provide high level of tactical situational
awareness for the crew.
The unique Anti-Armoured Punch
for KAPLAN MT features the latest
generation turret equipped with
high-pressure 105 mm gun, offering
substantial firepower against battlefield
threats with great speed of response
within a short period of time. It is an
ideal weapon of choice for both direct
and indirect fire missions, together with
infantry support roles. Its unique indirect
accurate firing capability allows effective
engagement in both open fields and
multi-complex urban terrains.
KAPLAN MT is in service with Indonesian
Army and represents the only export
contract of Türkiye within the Combat
Tank Class.