FNSS and PT Pindad Reveal Advanced Kaplan APC Concept Tailored for Indonesian Army
At Istanbul’s Saha Expo, Turkish defense company FNSS, in partnership with Indonesia’s state-owned PT Pindad, unveiled the latest conceptual design for their Kaplan Armored Personnel Carrier (APC), a 30-ton-class tracked vehicle set to meet the Indonesian Army’s modern combat needs. The collaboration, which began in 2015, has since yielded multiple innovative military vehicles, including the Kaplan MT medium tank, which Indonesia incorporated into its military operations earlier this year. The Kaplan APC now builds on these foundations with additional features and capabilities tailored to Indonesia’s demanding landscapes and defense requirements.
A Next-Generation Design for the Battlefield
With plans to begin production in 2025, the Kaplan APC brings several enhancements in technology and design. The first production unit will be manufactured in FNSS facilities in Turkey, followed by a second vehicle assembled at PT Pindad’s Indonesian facilities, reflecting the commitment to joint defense development and technology transfer. The APCs are scheduled to enter service in the Indonesian army by late 2026, reinforcing the military's mechanized infantry capabilities.
Designed for maximum durability and reliability, the Kaplan APC boasts an advanced suspension system that maximizes traction and stability across rough and unpredictable terrains. This system minimizes vibrations, enhancing the safety and comfort of the crew and passengers. The vehicle can accommodate up to 13 personnel, including the driver, commander, and gunner, making it ideal for rapid troop deployment. With its modular build and open architecture, the Kaplan APC is adaptable for multiple mission profiles, from reconnaissance to command-and-control functions.
Superior Protection and Survivability
In response to the increasing threats posed by modern warfare environments, the Kaplan APC is equipped with enhanced ballistic and mine protection systems that shield against small-arms fire, shrapnel, and roadside explosive devices. The vehicle includes optional active protection systems to counter anti-tank missiles and rocket-propelled grenades. Inside, a fire suppression system, climate control, and robust chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defenses are built in to ensure crew survivability under severe combat and environmental conditions. These features are crucial for deployment in regions where both tropical climates and complex combat scenarios demand high resilience and adaptability.
Power and Firepower
The Kaplan APC’s flexibility extends to its armament options. It is compatible with various turret systems and can accommodate an array of weaponry, including 30mm and 35mm cannons and anti-tank guided missiles. Its open architecture allows integration with both manned and unmanned turret systems, allowing the Indonesian Army to customize the vehicle for a broad spectrum of tactical applications. Furthermore, the APC can be equipped with mission-critical Battlefield Management and Situational Awareness Systems, which enhance communication and situational analysis during operations.
The Kaplan APC also supports multiple configurations beyond troop transport, making it an effective choice for roles such as medical evacuation, combat engineering, and direct or indirect fire support. This versatility strengthens Indonesia’s defense position, giving it a multi-functional vehicle that can adapt to diverse military needs.
With plans for production in both Turkey and Indonesia, the Kaplan APC represents a significant step forward in the defense partnership between FNSS and PT Pindad, as well as a strategic enhancement to Indonesia’s military assets. As these next-generation vehicles roll off production lines by 2025 and into Indonesian terrain by 2026, they will mark a new chapter in Southeast Asia’s armored vehicle capabilities, demonstrating the strength of international defense collaborations in achieving modernized, mission-ready military solutions.
