The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) are set to receive their first delivery of the locally produced Tarantula High Mobility Armoured Vehicles (HMAV 4×4) in 2027, marking the start of a phased rollout of 136 units from MILDEF International Technologies Sdn Bhd. The procurement follows a RM1.8 billion letter of intent signed between the Defence Ministry and the local defence manufacturer.
According to MILDEF managing director Datuk Seri Mohd Nizam Kasa, production will span five years, beginning with the completion of a Final User Vehicle, also referred to as a Seal Pattern, which will serve as the model for subsequent units. Under the first phase, 30 vehicles are scheduled to be delivered in early 2027, with another 30 units to follow by the end of that year. He explained that the staggered approach is intended to ensure the Tarantula’s design, ballistic protection, and capabilities fully meet the army’s operational requirements.
To recap, the locally produced armoured vehicle was first introduced in 2021 after four years of research and development, at a cost of around RM16 million. It is powered by a 7.2-litre Caterpillar turbocharged diesel engine that produces 330 horsepower, giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 21 hp per tonne and a top speed of 110 km/h. Built to NATO STANAG 4569 Level 2 standards for hull protection and Level 2B for underbelly protection, the vehicle is also equipped with a remote control weapon station, a central tyre inflation system, a hydraulic rear door, and advanced communications equipment.
In addition to the Tarantula programme, MILDEF is also bidding for a United Nations tender to supply Malaysia’s first High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicle (HMLTV), known as the Ribat. The company is the only local defence manufacturer vying for the contract, with the UN expected to decide on the award before October. The tender involves 50 units, though MILDEF’s facility is capable of producing up to 60 vehicles annually.
Mohd Nizam noted that the Ribat reflects Malaysia’s growing capability to design and produce advanced defence assets. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the launch of MILDEF’s new national armoured vehicle manufacturing facility in Sendayan, Negri Sembilan, on 23 August 2025.
(Source: The Star)
