Kia Unveils Military Vehicles and Tasman at Middle East Defense Exhibition

Tasman Unveiled with Matte Desert Color Finish

Kia will showcase military vehicles and the pickup truck Tasman at the largest international defense exhibition in the Africa and Middle East region.

On the 17th, Kia announced that it will participate in 'IDEX 2025 (International Defense Exhibition & Conference)' held from the same day until the 21st (local time) at the Abu Dhabi International Exhibition and Convention Center in the UAE.

IDEX is the largest international defense exhibition in the Africa and Middle East region, with over 1,350 companies from 65 countries worldwide participating.

At this exhibition, Kia will unveil the Medium Standard Vehicle (KMTV·Kia Medium Tactical Vehicle) bonnet-type bare chassis, the Small Tactical Vehicle (KLTV·Kia Light Tactical Vehicle) 2-seater cargo, and the Tasman.

Displayed at the Kia booth at UAE IDEX 2025 are (from left in the photo) the medium standard bonnet-type bare chassis, the small tactical 2-seater cargo, and the Tasman Shoka. Photo by Kia

Kia’s Medium Standard Vehicle is a vehicle scheduled to be supplied to the South Korean military starting June this year, replacing the existing 2½t and 5t military standard vehicles. It is equipped with various convenience features such as a rear camera and navigation system, enabling safer transportation of troops and supplies.

In addition, it features capabilities such as ▲wading through rivers up to 1m deep ▲handling 60% longitudinal slopes (ascending or descending slopes by moving forward or backward) and 40% lateral slopes (driving while tilted sideways) ▲transport capacity of up to 25 passengers, demonstrating safe transport performance even in harsh driving environments.

The Medium Standard Vehicle bonnet-type bare chassis showcased this time consists only of the frame and engine, allowing it to be manufactured in various forms according to specialized usage purposes. Notably, the driver’s seat is positioned behind the engine, providing enhanced protection for the driver from threats at the front of the vehicle.

The Small Tactical Vehicle 2-seater cargo supports ▲wading through rivers up to 760mm deep ▲60% longitudinal slopes and 40% lateral slopes ▲starting capability at minus 32 degrees Celsius ▲electromagnetic shielding functions, assisting safe military movement in diverse environments.

Kia’s Small Tactical Vehicle is recognized for its excellent mobility and high versatility based on its platform, and it is exported not only to the South Korean military but also to the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. It was also selected as a new vehicle in the Polish military vehicle replacement project.

Additionally, Kia will exhibit the Tasman, the brand’s first authentic pickup truck. The Tasman showcased at this exhibition is a show car exclusive to IDEX 2025. It features several special specifications reflecting the needs of the Africa and Middle East markets, such as ▲matte desert color paint ▲snorkel ▲front bumper bull bar.

A Kia official said, "It is meaningful to showcase Kia’s diverse special vehicles ranging from medium trucks to pickups," adding, "We will continue to present the future vision of military mobility through the development of military-tailored special vehicles for safe transportation."