Taiwan has unveiled a prototype of its new eight-wheeled infantry fighting vehicle, which has a 105mm assault gun.
The new armoured vehicle, which was unveiled to the public at a military base in central Taiwan, is part of the Clouded Leopard family and is reported to have attack efficiency similar to the US-made M1A2T Abrams main battle tank.
It can reach speeds of over 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour with a four-person crew.
The vehicle according to reports can execute fast bends while effortlessly navigating forward and side slopes of up to 26 degrees.
The state-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) helmed the development of the prototype.
The prototype was constructed as part of the military ministry’s efforts to create armed vehicles with superior combat capability and mobility.
This is in anticipation of a possible Chinese invasion.
The indigenous vehicle has “hunter-killer” capacity, which means it can engage one target while concurrently tracking another.
Its turret can also shoot up to 1,000 rounds before requiring replacement.
According to the NCSIST, Taiwan manufactures more than 80% of the vehicle’s parts, excluding the engine.
Taiwan intends to enhance the prototype, including strengthening the gun turret and lowering its height, before final testing and mass manufacturing next year.
