On December 6, 2024, the Singaporean company ST Engineering entered into a strategic partnership with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering (KPE) to establish in-country production for a new 8×8 amphibious multi-purpose armored vehicle. The vehicle will be based on the Terrex Infantry Fighting Vehicle, a design developed by ST Engineering and engineered to operate in open water conditions. The agreement marks ST Engineering’s first major land platform contract in recent years and its entry into the Central Asian defense market.
Production of the vehicle will begin in 2025 at KPE’s facility in Kazakhstan, which has an annual production capacity of 500 armored vehicles. KPE Chairman Aibek Baryssov highlighted the company’s production capabilities and experience in localized manufacturing, as well as its ability to meet operational needs specific to Kazakhstan’s geographic conditions. Future collaborative projects between KPE and ST Engineering are also under consideration.
The Terrex vehicle family is designed for modularity, offering multiple configurations to meet diverse operational requirements. Key specifications include gross vehicle weights of up to 35,000 kg, payload capacities of up to 12,000 kg, and seating for two to three crew members with up to 11 passengers. The platform is configurable with a variety of weapon systems, such as remote-controlled 30mm cannons, 105mm cannons, and 120mm mortars. Mobility features include independent suspension, ride-height control, and amphibious capabilities at Sea State 3. The vehicles can reach speeds exceeding 88 km/h on land and have an operational range of more than 520 km.