Abu Dhabi: Kia Corp., South Korea's second-largest carmaker, announced their participation in the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2025 in the United Arab Emirates this week, where they will showcase their non-passenger military vehicles. IDEX 2025, the Middle East's largest defense industry trade show, is scheduled to take place from Monday through Friday in Abu Dhabi.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kia will display several of its military vehicles, including the Kia Medium Tactical Vehicle (KMTV) bonnet-type bare chassis and the Kia Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) two-seater cargo. Additionally, Kia's first passenger pickup truck, the Tasman, will also be exhibited at the event. The KMTV is set to replace South Korea's 2.5-ton and 5-ton military standard vehicles starting from June. The vehicle is equipped with features such as front and rear cameras and navigation, enhancing safety and efficiency in troop and supply transport. It offers exceptional maneuverability, even in challenging environments.
The KLTV two-seater cargo vehicle is known for its versatility, being capable of crossing rivers up to 760 millimeters deep, handling steep slopes, and operating in temperatures as low as minus 32 C. This adaptability has led to its export to regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. As a key member of Hyundai Motor Group, Kia is also bringing the Tasman as a dedicated show car to the UAE trade show. The Tasman features a desert-colored matte paint, a front bumper bull bar, and other special features that cater to the preferences of customers in Africa and the Middle East.
A company official stated, "We will present the future vision of military mobility by developing special vehicles customized for the military to ensure safe mobility." Meanwhile, Hyundai Wia Corp., an auto parts unit under Hyundai Motor Group, will also participate in IDEX 2025, showcasing its defense systems. Among the items on display are mock-ups of a lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer mounted on a vehicle, an anti-drone integrated defense system (ADS) for small and medium-sized tactical vehicles, and a remote-controlled weapon system (RCWS) operable from within the vehicle.