Kia Unveils Non-Passenger Military Vehicles at IDEX 2025
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Synopsis
Kia, South Korea's second-largest automaker, announces its participation in IDEX 2025 in the UAE, showcasing military vehicles including the KMTV and KLTV. The event runs from February 17-21, highlighting the company's advancements in military mobility.
Key Takeaways
- Kia showcases non-passenger military vehicles at IDEX 2025.
- KMTV to replace existing military vehicles in June.
- KLTV features enhanced adaptability for challenging terrains.
- Tasman pickup truck tailored for Middle Eastern customers.
- Hyundai Wia Corp. presents advanced defense systems.
Seoul, Feb 17 (NationPress) Kia, the second-largest automaker in South Korea, announced on Monday its participation in the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2025, taking place this week in the United Arab Emirates, where it will be featuring its non-passenger military vehicles.
IDEX 2025, recognized as the largest defence trade exhibition in the Middle East, will commence on Monday (local time) and run through Friday in Abu Dhabi.
The company plans to showcase the Kia Medium Tactical Vehicle (KMTV) with a bonnet-type bare chassis, the Kia Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) two-seater cargo model, as well as its inaugural passenger pickup truck, the Tasman, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
Kia noted that the KMTV is set to take the place of South Korea's current 2.5-ton and 5-ton military standard vehicles starting in June.
This vehicle comes with advanced features such as front and rear cameras and navigation systems, which enhance the safety and efficiency of troop and supply transportation. It is designed for exceptional maneuverability, even in difficult terrains.
The KLTV two-seater cargo is known for its versatility, capable of navigating rivers up to 760 millimeters deep, ascending steep slopes, and operating in temperatures as low as minus 32 °C.
This vehicle has gained acclaim for its mobility and adaptability, leading to exports to areas such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.
Kia, an integral part of the Hyundai Motor Group, will also feature the Tasman as a specialized show vehicle at the trade exhibition in the UAE.
This model is adorned with a desert-colored matte finish, a bull bar on the front bumper, and other unique features tailored to meet the preferences of clients in Africa and the Middle East.
"We aim to depict the future vision of military mobility through our development of customized vehicles for military operations, ensuring safe transportation," stated a company representative.
In addition, Hyundai Wia Corp., a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, will present its defense systems at IDEX 2025.
Among the items on display are mock-ups of a lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer mounted on a vehicle, an integrated anti-drone defense system (ADS) for small and medium tactical vehicles, and a remote-controlled weapon system (RCWS) that can be operated from within the vehicle.
