IDEF2015: FNSS launches new AFV family
05th May 2015 - 4:57 by Tim Fish in Istanbul
Turkish armoured vehicle manufacturer, FNSS has launched a new class of armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) called Kaplan (Tiger) to mark the opening of the IDEF 2015 exhibition in Istanbul.
The family of tracked vehicles includes an armoured personnel carrier, infantry fighting vehicle, reconnaissance, ambulance, recovery and engineering variants.
For firepower the IFV variant will be fitted with a new 30mm stabilised remote weapon station from FNSS called Teber (battle-axe). Teber is also being unveiled at the IDEF exhibition and has more ready rounds than existing AFVs and ammo change can be completed with the operator remaining under armour.
This is a different vehicle to the Kaplan that was launched as the Light Armoured Weapon Carrier – Tracked (LAWC-T) at IDEF two years ago. That was KAPLAN 10 (10 ton) and the LAWC-T concept is different to the new next generation armoured vehicle concept.
A spokesperson for FNSS told Shephard that the Turkish Army has ‘no official requirements released for this concept. But as far as we know there are some studies for the future armored fighting vehicles.
‘Because of its weight class together with mobility and protection futures there is still a demand for FNSS ACV15 and 19 FoV. The biggest reason for FNSS developing the medium weight, Kaplan New generation Armored Fighting Vehicle is to meet future requirements with higher weight class indigenous design tracked armoured combat vehicle,’ the spokesperson said.
‘Kaplan offers one of a kind features in terms of high cross country mobility with amphibious capability, survivability, high payload capacity including 30 and 40mm gun systems, even turrets mounting 105mm, and a kind human machine interface with open architecture and situational awareness.
‘The ACV may remain in service for a few more decades. But most probably the Turkish Land Forces may replace the M113A1 & A2 fleet. However, modernized M113 vehicles still provide military capabilities to many armies worldwide.’
He added that Kaplan has ‘15% improved range and top speed compared to the ACV 15’.
Other capabilities of the Kaplan include an amphibious capability of 8km/h; pivot turn and backwards movement functions; and the ability to swim without preparation. It uses a rubber track to reduce weight; vibration; ground pressure; and improve road handling.
Kaplan has a payload capacity of 7t with 40% more space in the driver cockpit compared to other tracked AFVs and an extra 30% field of view. FNSS said that it has an improved power-to-weight ratio of 25hp/t.
The family of vehicles has survivability at its core and is fitted with active protection; mine protection in the hull, floor and seating; modular armour; overhead protection for heads up drive; dual NBC protection; explosion protection and sealed fuel tanks; and a reduced thermal signature.
Sub-systems include: improved a/c; adaptive interior lights; integrated hot and cold drinking water cells; more space for equipment and ammo; 360° situational awareness with day/night cameras; see through armour google for driver and commander; and 5%-95% human ergonomic seats.
Communications and navigation sub-systems include: a wireless intercom; next generation communications system; land navigation system; and also improved command and display panels; and integrated auxiliary power unit; and adjustable LED headlights.
