Tracked combat vehicle of the new generation KAPLAN-20 of the Turkish company FNSS
The new KAPLAN-20 embodies many innovative ideas that were born from the experience gained in the design and manufacture of 3000 tracked armored vehicles, which are currently in service with many countries, 25-year service experience in the military and more than 200 to high-class specialists FNSS company.
KAPLAN-20, whose property rights are wholly owned by FNSS Savunma Sistemleri AS (Defense Systems Inc.), was first presented at the 12 International Exhibition IDEF 2015.
The machine has high levels of protection from mines, rocket-propelled grenades and artillery shells. In addition, modern electronic subsystems are integrated into the machine, a high-performance power unit, suspension and tracks for heavy loads are installed, which allows the installation of heavy systems on the machine, such as 105-mm guns.
The new-generation armored vehicle KAPLAN-20, having a specific power of 22-25 hp / t, can operate together with the main combat tanks.
KAPLAN-20 has a low silhouette, its tracked undercarriage with twin six track rollers allows you to develop good speeds in any weather, not only on asphalt and dirt roads, but also on soft, swampy and rocky soils. A modern suspension system, special design tracks are designed to reduce vibrations and increase driving stability. Embarkation and disembarkation of the car through the aft ramp with a hydraulic drive or a door cut into it. On the roof there is a wide hatch for the crew and another hatch specially designed to maximize the field of view of the driver. Maintenance and repair of the engine with an automatic transmission is carried out through the open roof MTO and hatches in the front bulkhead. For proper weight distribution of the vehicle, two fuel tanks are located in the stern, they are fully armored and isolated from the vehicle, which increases the safety of the crew and the landing.
KAPLAN-20 is one of the few machines that has amphibious characteristics. Thanks to two water cannons located in the stern of the machine, KAPLAN-20 can overcome watercourses with a strong current. In water, it can rotate in place or even move backwards. In addition, overcoming the water barrier does not require prior preparation.
The KAPLAN-20 body is made using armor steel welding technology. The hull is sealed, all hatches and covers are sealed to prevent water from entering. Ahead is the power unit and the driver's seat, in the middle part of the shooter and the commander of the machine. In the version of the armored personnel carrier can accommodate 8 paratroopers, in the version with the tower is located 6 paratroopers.
Survival enhancement systems include reduced thermal visibility, a warning system for laser radiation, a sniper fire detection system, a system for protecting against weapons of mass destruction, and a modern communication system is installed in the machine.
The machine is equipped with wide-field periscopes with optical filters of protection against laser radiation, it allows to increase the level of situational awareness. In all cases, standard night vision systems are installed.
Layout solutions implemented in the new machine can significantly expand the number of options designed for solving different tasks.
Materials used:
www.fnss.com.tr
www.shephardmedia.com
www.wikipedia.org
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