Production of the first vehicle under the FNSS KAPLAN Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) program has entered its final phase, with assembly nearing completion. Following manufacturing, vehicle testing is scheduled to commence in the first half of 2026. Under the project framework, a second vehicle will be produced in Indonesia, with all deliveries targeted for completion by the end of 2026.
The program stems from a February 2024 agreement signed between FNSS and PT Pindad, following a contract between PT Pindad and the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. The collaboration aims to meet the Indonesian army’s requirement for a 30-ton class tracked personnel carrier through the “KAPLAN APC Development and Production Agreement.”
Design and Capabilities
The KAPLAN APC represents the newest addition to FNSS’s tracked armored vehicle family, specifically engineered for future battlefield requirements. Its design incorporates advanced ballistic protection, superior mine protection systems, and formidable firepower to ensure enhanced survivability in combat scenarios.
The vehicle’s structural configuration accommodates a crew of 13 personnel, including driver, commander, and gunner. Engineered for all-terrain and all-weather operation, the KAPLAN APC features an open architecture electronics infrastructure. This enables seamless integration of mission-critical systems, including Battlefield Management Systems and 360° Situational Awareness capabilities providing day and night vision for crew members.
Modular Flexibility
The KAPLAN APC is designed as a modular platform capable of integrating both manned and unmanned turret systems. It can be equipped with various weapon configurations, including light and medium calibers such as 30 mm or 35 mm cannons, as well as 120 mm mortars and anti-tank guided missile systems.
This modular design enables configuration for diverse mission profiles, including mechanized infantry operations, reconnaissance, command and control, force protection, medical evacuation, rescue operations, combat engineering, and direct or indirect fire support missions.
Commonality and Performance
All configurations are built on a combat-proven platform featuring a powerful engine and automatic transmission, ensuring mobility compatible with modern main battle tanks. The KAPLAN APC shares extensive identical parts and subsystems with the KAPLAN MT and other ACV-AD tracked vehicle family configurations, delivering significant logistical and maintenance advantages.
Additionally, the vehicle shares common subsystems with the Marine Assault Vehicle (MAV) currently deployed with the Turkish Naval Forces Marine Infantry Brigade, further enhancing reliability and support infrastructure.
