MILDEF Tarantula 4×4 Armoured Vehicle Passes Key Tests

October 18,2024

By:Our Bureau

The High Mobility Armoured Vehicle (HMAV) Tarantula 4×4, developed by MILDEF Technologies Sdn. Bhd., has successfully completed a series of technical evaluations, with the Malaysian Army confirming that the vehicle meets its operational requirements.

According to the recent statement from the Malaysian Defence Minister, Mohamed Khaled Nordin, the Tarantula underwent multiple assessment phases, including a Vehicle Capability Assessment conducted in Malaysia’s operational terrain in early 2021, and a Company Capability Assessment in February 2023.

In addition to these, ballistic tests were conducted abroad. A ballistic firing test took place at the Defence Technology Institute in Bangkok, Thailand, while a mine explosion test was conducted at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in Pretoria, South Africa.

The Army has confirmed that the Tarantula complies with technical specifications required for armoured vehicles. The Defence Minister added that MILDEF is capable of supplying the vehicle as a locally manufactured product, with the necessary production facilities already in place.

Despite the successful tests, it remains uncertain whether the Tarantula will be officially adopted by the Army. The decision will depend on the outcome of an ongoing procurement tender for High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicles (HMRV), expected to conclude in November. The tender process for these specialised support vehicles has been open since September.

The selection of the Tarantula would mark a significant boost for Malaysia’s defence industry, showcasing its ability to produce military assets domestically. The company has actively promoted the Tarantula internationally, participating in various regional defence exhibitions.

Source:

https://gbp.com.sg/stories/mildef-tarantula-4x4-armoured-vehicle-passes-key-tests/