Turkish KAPLAN medium tank unveiled at defence, security exhibition in Brazil

The KAPLAN medium tank, developed by Turkish defence company FNSS, has been showcased at the prestigious LAAD International Defence and Security Exhibition in Brazil.

This marks a significant moment for the tank, which is gaining attention for its advanced design and capabilities, making it a formidable contender in the global defense market, Turkish  SavunmaSanayiST.com posted on social media, Caliber.Az reports.

Türk savunma sanayii şirketi FNSS tarafından geliştirilen KAPLAN Medium Tank / VBC CC, Brezilya'da’daki LAAD Uluslararası Savunma ve Güvenlik Fuarı'nda sergileniyor.

Kulenin en önemli özelliği, 45°’ye çıkabilmesi. Bu açı diğer orta sınıf tankların hiçbirinde yok. pic.twitter.com/ktB2pkB77j

— SavunmaSanayiST.com (@SavunmaSanayiST) April 1, 2025

One of the standout features of the KAPLAN is its unique turret design, which is capable of elevating by 45°, a specification not found on any other medium tank. This enhanced mobility allows for more precise targeting in a variety of combat scenarios, giving the tank an edge over its competitors.

The Kaplan MT, equipped with a 105 mm Cockerill 3105 cannon manufactured by Belgian defence company John Cockerill Defense, is designed to offer a balanced mix of mobility and protection. It features advanced systems, including full digital weapon stabilization, a computerized fire control system, and an auto-reload ammunition system. These enhancements reduce the vehicle’s crew to just three members: a driver, a commander, and a gunner.

The tank weighs between 30 to 35 tons, classifying it as a light to medium tank, and is noted for its maneuverability and combat versatility. With a length of 9.105 metres, including the gun, and a width of 3.360 metres, the Kaplan MT maintains a relatively low profile at a height of 2.456 metres, making it less conspicuous on the battlefield.

The Kaplan MT's protection system includes a ballistic hull meeting the STANAG 4569 Level 4 standard, with an option for modular Level 5 armor for enhanced resistance against projectiles and explosives. The tank’s V-shaped underbelly is specifically designed to increase crew protection from mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The vehicle is powered by a Caterpillar C13 inline-6 diesel engine, producing 711 horsepower, which delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 22.2 horsepower per ton. This engine allows the Kaplan MT to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h, with a tested road speed of 78 km/h. Additionally, its Allison/Caterpillar X300 full automatic transmission and torsion bar suspension system ensure smooth and efficient operation on a variety of terrains.

Currently, the Brazilian Army operates a diverse fleet of armored vehicles, including 40 Leopard 1A1BE, 220 Leopard 1A5BR, and 30 M60A3 main battle tanks, making the Kaplan MT’s performance in this context crucial for any potential future orders.

By Vafa Guliyeva