The Indonesian Army’s 13th Cavalry Battalion stationed in East Kalimantan (Borneo island) has recently bolstered its arsenal with the arrival of nine Harimau Medium Tanks, marking a significant advancement in the country’s military capabilities. This acquisition positions the battalion as the inaugural unit to operate these cutting-edge tanks, jointly developed by Indonesia and Turkey. Previously reliant on outdated AMX-13 light tanks, this upgrade signals a strategic shift towards modernization and enhanced defense capabilities. As Indonesia prepares to inaugurate its new capital, Nusantara. With security considerations at the forefront, the Indonesian Army’s deployment of the Harimau Medium Tanks represents a proactive measure to ensure the defense readiness of Nusantara.
Indonesia’s military modernization coincides with broader national developments, notably the impending relocation of the capital city to the island of Borneo. Scheduled for inauguration on August 17, 2024, the new capital, Nusantara, symbolizes Indonesia’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation. Occupying approximately 180,000 hectares near Borneo’s east coast, the new capital will house key governmental institutions, including military bases, alongside residential and administrative facilities. The establishment of the Capital Security Regional Command (KODAM PIK) underscores the importance of safeguarding the new capital against potential threats. The creation of specialized units, including infantry and cavalry brigades, underscores the comprehensive approach to security planning for the new capital.
Kaplan Medium Tank or Harimau is a light tank jointly developed by Turkish manufacturer FNSS and Indonesian manufacturer Pindad. The development program name for the tank is Modern Medium Weight Tank (MMWT). The tank itself is called Kaplan MT by Turkey and Harimau by Indonesia, both meaning “tiger”. The MMWT is equipped with a Cockerill CT-CV 105HP (High Pressure) 105 mm rifled gun manufactured by CMI (Cockerill Maintenance & Ingenierie SA Defense), with the barrel mounting a bore evacuator and thermal jacket. The turret is equipped with an autoloader and can be rotated 360 degrees both electronically and mechanically, with a maximum elevation/depression of 42 up to -10 degrees, and it’s equipped with Gyro Stabilizer and Firing Control System. It’s also equipped with an IFF system, Hunter Killer System for target selection, and Auto Target Locking System to assist the gunner.
The hull armor of Harimau Medium Tank is using modular armor. It is categorized as STANAG 4569 level 4 protection, which means the tank can withstand 14.5×114mm AP rounds at 200 meters with 911 m/s velocity. The underbelly of the tank uses V-hull, able to withstand 10 kg AT mine under the tracks and under the center. Due to modularity, the armor can be augmented to level 5 protection (withstand 25 mm APDS-T at 500 m with 1258 m/s velocity) without increasing the volume of the tank, with the frontal arc able to withstand 30 mm rounds. The Harimau Medium Tank’s survivability has been further strengthened. A modular PULAT active protection system joint-developed by ASELSAN and TUBITAK SAGE can be integrated. This ensures the tank’s defensive capabilities against projectiles at all-angles.
